Connelly Meets Qahwaji, Voices U.S. Concern over Security Situation in Lebanon

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly underscored on Friday that the U.S. remains concerned that developments in Syria not contribute to instability 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.”

She made her remarks after holding talks with Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji on the security situation in Lebanon and U.S. support for the Lebanese army.

She also stressed the United States’ support in strengthening the capacity of the Lebanese army, “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 Lebanese army and the Internal Security Forces to work together to maintain calm in Lebanon. 

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