The Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun accompanied by the Commander of the US central Command General Votel and Ambassador Elizabeth Richard toured several units in Ersal
The Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun, accompanied by the Commander of the US central Command General Joseph Votel and US Ambassador Elizabeth Richard, visited several units deployed in Ersal where the Armed Force Commander informed the US delegation of the deployment chart of the military forces and their frontline posts at the eastern borders in the face of the terrorist organizations. General Aoun also informed the delegation of the combat capabilities and measures taken by these forces in controlling the borders against smuggling operations and targeting terrorist gatherings and movements. The US delegation was also informed of the needs in weapons, equipment and monitoring and surveillance equipment.
His speech included the following:
It is wonderful to be back in Lebanon and here near Arsal. We deeply value our relationship with the LAF and the work they are doing to keep Lebanon safe.
I had good visits yesterday and this morning with President of the Republic General Michel Aoun and Speaker of Parliament Mr. Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Mr. Saad el Hariri, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Gebran Bassil and with the military leadership, namely Minister of Defense Mr. Yaacoub el Sarraf and General Aoun, the Armed forces Commander. We had very productive conversations and reaffirmed our shared commitment to ensuring stability and security in this important part of the world. We have many common interests that include the defeat of Da’esh and other violent extremist and terrorist elements and we intend to continue to work together to address these and other challenges.
I appreciate this opportunity to visit 9th Brigade here near Arsal. We thank the commander and his team for their warm and gracious hospitality. I was proud to meet some of the soldiers defending Lebanon’s sovereignty and impressed to see the progress they’ve made in securing Lebanon’s borders with Syria. The Lebanese Armed Forces remain among our most capable and valued partners and we are proud to support them as the sole defenders of Lebanon. We look forward to building upon the strong foundation that exists between our militaries in the coming days. In these challenging times, I remain confident there are no difficulties that cannot be overcome, so long as we are willing to work together.
Again, I appreciate the warm welcome and the wonderful hospitality that we’ve received here in Lebanon. Thank you very much.
