Ambassador Connelly Meets LAF Commander General Kahwagi

May 24, 2012

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly met today with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander General Jean Kahwagi in his offices at Yarze.  Ambassador Connelly and the General discussed the security situation in Lebanon and U.S. support for the LAF.

Ambassador Connelly underscored the United States’ support in strengthening the capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces, recognizing its importance in serving as Lebanon’s sole legitimate defense force to secure Lebanon’s borders and defend the sovereignty and independence of the state. 

She expressed the United States’ appreciation for the efforts of the LAF and the Internal Security Forces to work together to maintain calm in Lebanon.  She emphasized U.S. concern for the current security situation in Lebanon and called on all parties to exercise restraint and respect for Lebanon’s security and stability.  The Ambassador underscored that the U.S. remains concerned that developments in Syria not contribute to instability in Lebanon.

She renewed the commitment of the United States to a stable, sovereign and independent Lebanon.