UK Vice Admiral reiterates support to Lebanon's long-term stability and security
by Naharnet Newsdesk 13 March 2025, 11:19
The UK Defense Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa (DSAME) Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren ended Thursday a two-day visit to Lebanon where he met with senior Lebanese and U.N. officials.
Ahlgren congratulated President Joseph Aoun on his election as President and the formation of a new government, which shows hope and change for the future, as he reiterated the UK's support for Lebanon's long-term stability and security.
Ahlgren held meetings with Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, Defense Minister Michel Menassa, acting Army Commander Major General Hassan Audeh, Head of LAF Operations, General Rudolph Heykel, and UNIFIL Chief of Staff in Naqoura, Major General Jean-Jacques Fatinet. He was accompanied by the UK Chargé D'Affaires Victoria Dunne and Defense Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith.
At the end of the visit Dunne said that "the election of a President and the formation of a new government signals a new chapter for Lebanon's security, stability, and prosperity." "As close partners of Lebanon, we discussed the government's proposed road map for the country's recovery and future prosperity. This includes the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement agreed in November 2024," she added.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren said "It was a pleasure to meet President Joseph Aoun again following his election in January." He added that the UK will continue to work closely with the Lebanese state and support the Lebanese Armed Forces, "as the sole legitimate military force."
"During our visit to Naqoura, we reiterated the UK's support to UNIFIL peacekeepers' work as a vital tool for Lebanon's security," Ahlgren went on to say.
"Lebanon's future stability is also crucial to regional stability. The UK remains a long-standing friend of Lebanon and the LAF," he said.
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