Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Statement by Ambassador David Hale following his meeting with President of the Chamber of Deputies Nabih Berri

October 27, 2014
I had the opportunity to meet with the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Speaker Berri, and we had a very good discussion of the region and of the challenges that Lebanon is facing today.  The United States commends the bravery of the personnel of the Lebanese Armed Forces, who are working to keep Tripoli and Akkar safe for all residents. And we join with Lebanon as it mourns the loss of the soldiers and officers who have died defending Lebanon from terrorist groups.  We are encouraged by the strong stand of Prime Minister Salam in this regard, and that of other leaders.
We condemn those who seek to sow chaos and discord in Lebanon and are confident the Lebanese people stand united in the face of this threat.  The army and the state's security institutions alone have the legitimate role of defending Lebanon, under the direction of the government.  I can say speaking for the United States of America, the LAF has all of our confidence and we will continue to support it and the Lebanese government as they battle to keep Lebanon safe and secure.
Lebanon's unity and security are important to Lebanon as they are to the world.  This week, representatives of many states will gather in Berlin to discuss ways to support Lebanon and other countries affected by the spillover of the war in Syria. 
Lebanon can count on continued support and solidarity from the United States.

Wednesday, October 08, 2014

Congressman Mike Pompeo visits Lebanon

October 8, 2014
Today Congressman Mike Pompeo visited Lebanon where he met with political and religious leaders to discuss the political and security situation in the region, as well as the plight of religious minorities in the Levant.  In his meetings, Congressman Pompeo reaffirmed U.S. support for Lebanon's security and political institutions, as well as the preservation of minority religious communities in the Middle East.