Moqbel Meets UK Defense Secretary, Stresses Need to Bolster Army Capabilities
UK Defense Secretary Michael Fallon reaffirmed the his country's commitment to help Lebanon protect itself against terrorism, including the threat from the Islamic State group, announced the British embassy in a statement.
Minister of Defense Samir Moqbel ended a one-day visit to the United Kingdom on Thursday, accompanied by British Ambassador to Lebanon Hugo Shorter.
Moqbel met with his British counterpart Secretary of State for Defense Michael Fallon and held meetings with Foreign Office Minister Tobias Ellwood, Defense Minister Julian Brazier, Chief of the Defense Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton, and Lieutenant General Thomas Beckett -Defense Senior Advisor for the Middle East.
The visit was an opportunity to discuss bilateral military and security ties and cooperation between Lebanon and the UK. It also focused on how the UK is supporting the Lebanese army through the recent announcement by the Foreign Secretary Phillip Hammond of the UK’s intention to invest a further £19.8million in mentoring and training of the military, which will bring the UK’s total commitment to the army to over £60 million.
In their discussion, Fallon and Moqbel focused on international terrorism and the security situation in the region including the challenges posed by the IS. They shared thoughts on how the two countries can work together to further stability, security and peace in Lebanon.
“It was a fruitful visit to the UK where we discussed practical support for the army and developing the military cooperation to enhance the capabilities for fighting terrorism,” said Moqbel.
“I welcomed the UK government’s position on what it has provided so far and what it has promised to deliver for the training of the army and support in protecting the borders.”
For his part, Fallon stated: “The spread of terrorism from IS represents a threat to us all, and Lebanon is on the front line.”
“Lebanon is an important Defense ally and we have increased our support to help develop the Lebanese Armed Forces so they are able to strengthen their borders and protect their people.”
In the meeting with Ellwood, reiterated the strong bilateral ties between the two countries, stressing that the UK is keen to see the election of a president as soon as possible and ready to work with any candidate agreed upon by the Lebanese.
The minister also discussed the UK’s continued support as one of the largest bilateral donors to the Syrian refugee crisis following on from the London conference, highlighting the importance of following up on the joint commitments made.
Source: Agence France Presse
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