2006 press releases

Assitant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs C. David Welch Press Availability

Following meeting with Prime Minister Siniora, Grand Serail Beirut, Lebanon August 5, 2006

August 7, 2006

Assistant Secretary Welch: I’m going to say a few words and then I must go as I am late for another meeting. I came today to Beirut at a very critical time to help to seek an end to the terrible violence that has resulted in the death of many innocent people, the destruction to homes and villages, and has extinguished the hope of many Lebanese that this summer season heralded a return to normality. I grieve for the lives that have been lost and I share the disappointment of the people of Lebanon that their dream of a sovereign, stable and prosperous country has, once again, been damaged.

I appreciate very much the opportunity I had to meet today with Prime Minister Siniora and with Speaker Nabih Berri to hear their concerns and to discuss ways forward. I appreciate and I understand that there are many challenges, politically, economically and socially, confronting this government. President Bush and Secretary Rice are determined to support Lebanon, as are the American people. I will be sure to report today my discussions with the Prime Minister and the Speaker on all the issues that they have raised and that I have raised.

Much has happened in the past three weeks, but the commitment of the United States to Lebanon remains firm; it remains enduring and it is not negotiable. The relationship of the United States with Lebanon is based on mutual respect and the shared interests of two diverse and democratic countries. The ties between our governments, and most importantly, the affection between our two peoples even at a time of great danger and stress, remain very strong.

Yet, the challenges facing Lebanon today are much more difficult than we would have imagined just weeks ago. This country, with its factories damaged, with supply routes interrupted and even with the fuel situation, faces even greater economic challenges than before. There are strains to the social fabric of this country. Those who left their homes to escape the violence must be able to return to their towns and villages just as soon as possible. With the beginning of the school year approaching, the children of Lebanon must be able to start school again, with their classmates in their homes. And Lebanon—which has always been such an important gateway to the Middle East—must be reconnected to the outside world so that it has access to food, fuel, medicine and supplies and so that there are safe routes for those who need to travel out and those who need to come in.

As I said, we want to put an end, put behind us forever, the terrible violence witnessed in the past three weeks. With a lasting political framework supported by an international force to help the Lebanese armed forces, I hope we can all work together to realize the dreams of the people of Lebanon for a better future. What my Lebanese colleagues affirmed to me today is their determination to work together in partnership to advance our common goals of a peaceful, prosperous and stable Lebanon.

Thank you all very much.