Lebanon and the UK are longtime friends and business partners. The two countries have been working together militarily for more than ten years.
Yesterday, James Heappey, MP, the UK’s Minister for the Armed Forces, paid a day trip to Lebanon. During his first trip to Lebanon, Minister Heappey had the opportunity to observe firsthand how British initiatives aid the Lebanese Armed Forces in preserving stability throughout the country.
Minister Heappey was accompanied by the British Ambassador to Lebanon, Dr. Ian Collard, and the Defence Attaché of the British Embassy, Lt. Col. Lee Saunders.
The Minister met with General Joseph Aoun, commander of the Lebanese Army, and interim Defense Minister Maurice Sleem. They talked about the UK and Lebanon’s military collaboration.
Minister Heappey learned from top Lebanese officers at the Third Land Border Regiment (LBR) on the Syrian border how the UK’s efforts to increase the LBRs’ capabilities had enhanced efforts to combat cross-border smuggling and terrorist activity. Local communities now feel safer in the region as a result.
Four Land Border Regiments (LBRs), more than 78 border towers, 350 Land Rovers, 100 armoured patrol vehicles, and training for more than 20,000 Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) members have all been made possible thanks to UK help.
At the end of his visit, Minister Heappey said:
“The UK and Lebanon are close friends and partners. I was proud to see first-hand the positive impact of the military cooperation between our two countries that has spanned more than a decade.
“I times of need, the UK stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Lebanon and our partners around the world to tackle shared challenges. In the current context, it is more important than ever that we continue to work together to combat threats to global peace and security.
“I have greatly enjoyed my first visit to this beautiful country and hope to return.”
The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Dr. Ian Collard, said:
“I am delighted to host the Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, on his first visit to Lebanon. The Lebanese Armed Forces is crucial to ensuring Lebanon’s stability and safeguarding the Lebanese people during these challenging times. Since 2010, the UK has committed over £87 million to optimise the LAF’s capabilities which underlines the UK’s government commitment to a safe and stable Lebanon.”