The UK Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa (DSAME) Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren ended a two-day visit to Lebanon where he met with senior Lebanese and UN officials. Vice Admiral Ahlgren congratulated President Aoun on his election as President and the formation of a new government, which shows hope and change for the future. Vice Admiral Ahlgren reiterated the UK’s support for Lebanon’s long-term stability and security.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren held meetings with President Joseph Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, Defence Minister Michel Menassa, acting Army Commander Major General Hassan Audeh, Head of LAF Operations, General Rudolph Heykel, and UNIFIL Chief of Staff in Naqoura, Major General Jean-Jacques Fatinet. He was accompanied by the UK Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne and Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith.
At the end of the visit Chargé D’Affaires, Victoria Dunne said
The election of a President and the formation of a new government signals a new chapter for Lebanon’s security, stability, and prosperity. As close partners of Lebanon, we discussed the government’s proposed road map for the country’s recovery and future prosperity. This includes the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement agreed in November 2024.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren said
It was a pleasure to meet President Joseph Aoun again following his election in January. The UK will continue to work closely with the Lebanese state and support the Lebanese Armed Forces, as the sole legitimate military force. During our visit to Naqoura, we reiterated the UK’s support to UNIFIL peacekeepers’ work as a vital tool for Lebanon’s security.
Lebanon’s future stability is also crucial to regional stability. The UK remains a long-standing friend of Lebanon and the LAF.
