U.S. to Provide Lebanese Army with Stronger Equipment
U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Hale uncovered that Washington would provide the Lebanese army with "stronger and more effective" equipment.
He said a U.S. Congressional delegation, which he will be part of, will visit Lebanon in October for this purpose.
Hale, in an interview published Thursday by the pan-Arab daily Al-Hayat, described the trip to the U.S. by President Michel Suleiman as "historic."
He said Suleiman”s visit reflects Washington”s commitment to help Lebanon and work toward rebuilding its institutions and implementing U.N. Security Council resolutions and guaranteeing its independence and sovereignty.
Hale said Washington has "great confidence" in Suleiman and the military institution, adding that the U.S. will continue to provide assistance and support for the Lebanese army from both the Republican and Democratic parties.
"Security is the major challenge, among other challenges, that the Lebanese government faces," Hale said, stressing Washington understands that the process to restore peace and rehabilitate the Lebanese army and police "will take time."