LONDON, July 3 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news:
The UK Deputy National Security Adviser Dame Barbara Woodward concluded a two-day visit to Lebanon (1-2 July), focused on strengthening further cooperation between the UK and Lebanon, supporting regional stability, and reaffirming the UK's long-standing commitment to Lebanon's security and sovereignty.
Accompanied by Ambassador Hamish Cowell, DameBarbaramet Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri, and Lebanese Army Commander General RodolpheHaykal. Discussions centred on the UK's support for Lebanon's efforts to extend state authority across all Lebanese territory,strengthen state institutionsand a political settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701.
DameBarbarareiterated the UK'sstrong supportfor the Government of Lebanon and welcomed recent historic decisions, includingthe announcement of the trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon Israel and the United States. This agreement will be central to advancing progress towardswithdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, disarmament of Hizballah and the full deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces across Lebanese territory.
The visit highlighted the UK'sreadiness to play its part in supporting this diplomatic process including through humanitarian and development aid and as a leading supporter of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
The UKcontinuestosupport the Lebanese Armed Forces- Lebanon's sole legitimate defender -throughborder security infrastructure, training, and equipment. DameBarbaracommended LAF's work securing the Syrian border, managing severe challenges in the South, andmaintainingstability during an exceptionally difficult period.
Dame Barbara Woodward said:
This visit comes at a pivotal moment as Lebanon and its partners work toward a sovereign and peaceful future. The UK will continue to support diplomatic efforts that deliver lasting peace and security for both Lebanon and Israel.
Diplomacy is the onlyviablepath to a lasting political settlementleading to Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon,Hizballah'sdisarmamentandfull LAF deploymentacross Lebanon.
Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:
An important visit for DameBarbarato Lebanon. The UK warmly welcomes the announcement of the trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon,Israeland the United States.
The UKremainscommitted to Lebanon's stability and sovereignty, working closely with Lebanese and international partners to advance peace and protect civilians.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
