2006 press releases
Statement by Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Danin Grand Serail Beirut, Lebanon
October 20, 2006This is my first visit to Lebanon as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs. This has been an extremely useful and informative visit. My visit had several aims. First, and foremost I came to reiterate the strong commitment of the United States to Lebanon. As President Bush said in August when he committed $230 million to support humanitarian and reconstruction work in Lebanon: “America is making a long-term commitment to help the people of Lebanon because we believe every person deserves to live in a free, open society that respects the rights of all.”
I came to Lebanon, also, to meet with Prime Minister Siniora to hear his assessment of the challenges confronting Lebanon and ways in which the United States can be supportive. I thank the Prime Minister for spending time with me today and for sharing with me the vision of his government for the future. Prime Minister Siniora’s strong leadership has enabled the Government of Lebanon to harness enormous international support for Lebanon. The more than $900 million dollars pledged for Lebanon’s reconstruction in Stockholm is a vote of confidence from the world community in both the people and the Government of Lebanon.
The United States believes its confidence in Lebanon and the government of Prime Minister Siniora is well placed. We commend the Prime Minister and his government for their efforts to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and to rebuild Lebanon. The deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces to the South for the first time in 40 years is, we believe, an important step towards ensuring that the Lebanese people will never again have to experience the tragedy of war on their territory.
During my visit to Lebanon, I also met with Lebanese both inside and outside of government to identify common concerns and develop ideas for ways forward. Although there is a diversity of views, I am pleased to note a real unity of purpose—to help the Lebanese people achieve their dream of a stable, prosperous, democratic Lebanon with the promise of a better life for all its citizens. That is certainly the goal of the United States: to work in partnership with the Lebanese people towards a peaceful, democratic Middle East.
I have also had the opportunity during my orientation visit to learn more about activities funded by the United States, aimed at addressing the humanitarian needs created by the recent hostilities. I am proud of America’s response to those in need. This support comes not only from the U.S. Government but also from private American citizens. The recent visit in September by a delegation of CEOs is a demonstration of the American people’s generosity and compassion, as well as the strong ties between our two diverse, democratic countries. Reporting to President Bush after their return to the United States, the delegation announced the creation of a fund to provide a mechanism for American citizens to channel their support for the reconstruction of Lebanon.
Finally, on behalf of my government and the American people, I extend best wishes for ramadan to those who observe this holy period. I hope this month will offer an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal for all of us, and for generosity towards those whose lives and livelihoods were disrupted so terribly this summer. Ramadan karim.