Latest news with #HamishCowell
Lebanese Army
3 days ago
- Politics
- Lebanese Army
The British Ambassador Visits the Third Border Regiment
Saturday, 24 May 2025 The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell, accompanied by Military Attaché Major Charles Smith, visited the Third Border Regiment. During the visit, they were briefed on the regiment's missions within the framework of the LAF's efforts to monitor and secure the borders, as well as to prevent infiltration and smuggling activities. They also learned about the challenges faced by the regiment and the essential needs to enhance its capabilities.
Nahar Net
3 days ago
- Politics
- Nahar Net
British and Canadian ambassadors host reception celebrating media freedom in Lebanon
by Naharnet Newsdesk 24 May 2025, 12:01 Celebrating the role of Lebanese media in reform and accountability, British Ambassador Hamish Cowell and Canadian Ambassador Stefanie McCollum co-hosted a reception to reaffirm "the essential role of a free media in Lebanon," the British embassy said. The event brought together journalists, civil society representatives, diplomats, and advocates to recognize the "indispensable role that a free and independent press plays in holding power to account, to reaffirm its essential part in Lebanon's reform agenda, and safeguarding democratic societies," the embassy said in a statement. The reception paid special tribute to the journalists working on the front lines in South Lebanon, and those that have lost their lives reporting under challenging and dangerous conditions. In their remarks, both ambassadors emphasized that media freedom is not only a cornerstone of democracy but also a vital mechanism for transparency, accountability, and informed public opinion. British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said: 'The UK is a firm advocate for media freedoms here in Lebanon and across the globe. Free press is the watchdog of democracy. I commend the courage of journalists who risk their lives, and those that face prosecution, to bring truth to light. Their courage strengthens our shared commitment to human rights and democratic values'. "As Lebanon continues to navigate complex political and social challenges, the role of a free and independent media remains more critical than ever," he added. Canadian Ambassador Stefanie McCollum said: "Media freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies and is essential for protecting human rights. It is only through accountability and the eradication of impunity that we can ensure journalists are able to fulfil their essential role without fear of reprisal. Canada is proud to stand with the UK to promote and support media freedom here in Lebanon and all over the world.' 'Canada stands with journalists who risk their lives to bring truth to light. Their courage strengthens our shared commitment to human rights and democratic values," McCollum added.
Nahar Net
5 days ago
- Politics
- Nahar Net
British Ambassador visits Lebanon's eastern borders with Syria
by Naharnet Newsdesk 22 May 2025, 17:37 British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell visited Thursday Lebanon's eastern borders with Syria to see first-hand the UK's efforts to support the Lebanese Armed Forces' (LAF) enhanced border security capabilities. "This visit underscores the UK's commitment to strengthening LAF capabilities in extending state authority over its border with Syria, countering smuggling activities, and safeguarding local communities," the British Embassy said in a statement. During the visit, Cowell met with military and local officials. The Ambassador and the Mokhtar of Yanta Riad Saab and other local citizens visited a solar-powered water pumping station as part of initiatives aimed at strengthening civil-military cooperation, within areas of operation for the Land Border Regiments (LBRs). Following his visit Ambassador Cowell said: "The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its support for Lebanon's sovereignty and security. Our partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces is crucial in helping to maintain stability across Lebanon, and protecting the livelihoods of those living near the border. I am proud of our support and the UK's role as a key partner to the LAF; through the UK Integrated Security Fund we have supported the establishment of the Land Border Regiments (LBRs) on the border with Syria since 2013 and have provided over £115m worth of assistance to the LAF. The Land Border Regiments have helped reinforce the security of this border and the authority of the Lebanese State's authority over these areas. In Yanta, I was impressed to see the solar-powered water pumping station project benefiting hundreds in the area. This project delivers a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution to the water supply needs of the Yanta community. An excellent example of the LAF and communities coming together."
National News
25-04-2025
- Business
- National News
UK Ambassador welcomes Lebanon's approval of amended Banking Secrecy Law as reform milestone
NNA - British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell, on Friday expressed his support for the Lebanese Parliament's approval of the amended banking secrecy law, describing it as a positive step toward essential economic reforms. In a statement published on the social media platform X, Ambassador Cowell said he was 'delighted' to see the legislative development, emphasizing that transparency is crucial for 'confidence, investment, assistance, and accountability.' He added that the move sends a strong signal of Lebanon's commitment to the reforms necessary for the country's future, praising the efforts of the President, Prime Minister, ministers, and members of Parliament.
