Government Formation in Lebanon

01/22/2020 06:45 PM EST

Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State

The test of Lebanon's new government will be its actions and its responsiveness to the demands of the Lebanese people to implement reforms and to fight corruption.  Only a government that is capable of and committed to undertaking real and tangible reforms will restore investor confidence and unlock international assistance for Lebanon.

The unified, non-sectarian, and largely peaceful protests over the last three months reflect the Lebanese people's aspirations for their political leaders to put aside partisan interests and to act in the national interest.   We urge the government, army, and security services to guarantee the safety of citizens as they engage in peaceful demonstrations.  Violence and provocative actions have no place in civil discourse.