PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 The United States welcomes the announcement that Lebanon’s leaders have agreed to form a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati, offering hope that urgent action will be taken to address the dire needs and legitimate aspirations of the Lebanese people. We urge …
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COVID-19 Press Release: U.S. Donates Personal Protective Equipment to Lebanon’s ISF (Jun. 23, 2021) Video: Supporting LAU Mobile Clinic (Jan. 13, 2021) Video: Lebanese Entrepreneurs Respond to COVID-19 (Oct. 26, 2020) Video: Supporting the LAF in Manufacturing Face Masks (Sep. 10, 2020) Press Release: U.S. Provides Additional Assistance to Lebanon to Respond to COVID-19 (Apr. 22, 2020) Infographic: U.S. Assistance to Lebanon (COVID-19, 2020) EDUCATION Check this list of Scholarships & Exchanges in the U.S. and in Lebanon. Video: USAID provides educational boxes to Lebanese primary school students (Oct. 9, 2020) Video: Funding 2 Lebanese Universities (Aug. 20, 2020) ECONOMIC & HUMANITARIAN Video: Beirut Port Blast Assistance (July 19, 2021) Video: #ChooseToChallenge (March 5, …
Read More» The Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the Embassy of the United States of America in Beirut in collaboration with the Federal Bureau for Investigation (FBI) conducted a training on countering public corruption at the Internal Security Forces (ISF) academy in Aramoun. Twenty-four ISF members and four judges …
Read More» Thursday, August 5, 2021 Office of Press Relations press@usaid.gov Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. announced nearly $100 million in new humanitarian assistance for Lebanon. This assistance from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Department of State will help people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and its compounding socioeconomic impacts …
Read More» The International Support Group for Lebanon (ISG) met on 3 August, on the eve of the anniversary of the tragic explosions at the port of Beirut on 4 August 2020. All members expressed their solidarity with the families of the victims, and with those whose lives and livelihoods have been affected. It urged authorities to …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE Today’s announcement that Saad Hariri is resigning as Prime Minister-designate is yet another disappointing development for the Lebanese people. It is critical that a government committed and able to implement priority reforms be formed now. The government must also start preparing for the 2022 parliamentary elections, which …
Read More» On July 8, 2021, French Ambassador to Lebanon Anne Grillo and U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea conducted trilateral meetings with counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss the situation in Lebanon. This initiative follows up on the trilateral meetings among U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Saudi Arabian …
Read More» The U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea will travel alongside the French Ambassador to Lebanon Anne Grillo to Saudi Arabia for meetings with Saudi Arabian officials on July 8, 2021. This visit follows U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s trilateral meeting on Lebanon with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud on June 29 in …
Read More» Media Notice For Immediate Release July 06, 2021 A representative from the United States Central Command, in coordination with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, is conducting a visit to review security upgrades to border security systems installed at Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) land and maritime border regiments. The two-week visit, which concludes on July 9, …
Read More» Media Notice For Immediate Release In May and June 2021, the U.S. Government, through the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), delivered the first of several shipments of personal protective equipment to Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces (ISF) in response to a request from the Ministry of Interior. This donation aims to help mitigate the spread …
Read More» Media Notice For Immediate Release May 28, 2021 On Friday, May 28, Ambassador Dorothy Shea joined Rear Admiral Curtis Renshaw and Chief of Defense Joseph Aoun to commemorate the conclusion of the Resolute Union 2021 Joint Military Exercise. Conducted May 17-28 in Lebanon and in the Eastern Mediterranean, the event is designed to enhance interoperability …
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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson May 21, 2021 The U.S. Department of State and the Lebanese Armed Forces held their inaugural Defense Resourcing Conference on May 21, 2021. Senior Official for Arms Control and International Security C.S. Eliot Kang headed the U.S. delegation and Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander General Joseph Aoun …
Read More» In April 2021, the Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the Embassy of the United States in Beirut, in collaboration with the American Bar Association (ABA), concluded a series of training seminars for members of the Lebanese judicial system focused on efforts to strengthen the country’s criminal justice processes and develop …
Read More» Good morning and Ramadan Kareem. I came to Lebanon at the request of Secretary Blinken to underscore the Biden Administration’s continued commitment to the Lebanese people and our shared desire for stability and prosperity in Lebanon. Over the past three days, I have met with many Lebanese leaders to discuss the prolonged political gridlock and deteriorating economic …
Read More» Good morning and Ramadan Kareem. I just met the President of the Chamber of Deputies to discuss current events. I am in Lebanon today at the request of Secretary Blinken to discuss the distressing political and economic crisis facing Lebanon and to reaffirm America’s commitment to the Lebanese people. America and its international partners are greatly concerned …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON APRIL 12, 2021 Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale will travel to Beirut April 13-15 for meetings with a full range of leaders. He will underscore America’s concerns with the worsening socio-economic conditions throughout the country and the political impasse that is contributing to the deteriorating situation. Under …
Read More» On March 26, Ambassador Dorothy Shea joined Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) General Ziad Haikal at Hamat Air Base for a ribbon cutting ceremony for four large munitions storage facilities, which were funded by U.S. government contributions. The event was also attended by Darren Cormack, CEO of Mines Advisory Group, to which the United States has provided over …
Read More» Media Notice March 15, 2021 For Immediate Release General Kenneth F. McKenzie, Commander of the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), visited Lebanon on March 15, 2021. General McKenzie met with senior representatives of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), including LAF Commander General Joseph Aoun, where he reaffirmed the importance of preserving Lebanon’s security, stability, and …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 18, 2021 The following statement was released by United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, and UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab following today’s ministerial meeting: Begin text: The Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the United …
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On February 12-13, 2021, Rear Admiral Frank M. Bradley, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command Central, visited Lebanon to conduct meetings with his Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) counterparts, and reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting the LAF’s professionalism and advancement. During the visit, Rear Admiral Bradley met with Chief of Defense Joseph Aoun, as …
Read More» As delivered Begin Text: Monika and other family members of the late Lokman Slim, and friends of loved ones of Lokman: I expressed my condolences publicly last week. Today, I am honored to be with you — his family and his loved ones — to convey in person my deepest sympathy. You were robbed. We all were robbed of a …
Read More» Media Note Office of the Spokesperson February 4, 2021 The text of the following statement was released by United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on the occasion of the six-month anniversary of the Port of Beirut incident. Begin Text: Six months after the August 4 explosion which occurred …
Read More» Remarks as Delivered I want to begin by conveying my sincere condolences to the family of Lokman Slim, and all of those who are impacted by the tragic news of his death, a barbaric assassination. Lokman Slim publicly and privately acknowledged that there were threats being made against his life, and yet he bravely continued to push for justice, …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Earlier this year, the Israeli and Lebanese governments sought U.S. assistance in mediating an agreement on their maritime boundary. Such an agreement would offer potentially significant economic benefits to the people of both countries. Regrettably, despite goodwill on both sides, the parties remain far apart. The United …
Read More» United States Ambassador John Desrocher visited Lebanon today and held bilateral talks with H.E. President Michel Aoun, Commander of the Lebanese Army General Joseph Aoun, and Brigadier General Bassam Yassine, as well as other members of the Lebanese delegation. These talks occurred as part of Ambassador Desrocher’s ongoing mediation efforts on the Lebanon-Israel maritime boundary. The discussions were productive …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I send sincere congratulations to the people of Lebanon as they celebrate their Independence Day. Over the last seventy-seven years, Lebanon has faced many challenges, but the past year has been especially trying for …
Read More» Today, the United States is designating Gibran Bassil, the leader of the Lebanese Free Patriotic Movement and a former Lebanese cabinet official, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13818 for his role in corruption. E.O. 13818, which builds on and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, targets corruption and serious human rights abuses around the …
Read More» Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Gibran Bassil (Bassil), the President of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) political party and Member of Parliament (MP), pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, for his role in corruption in Lebanon. E.O. 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON OCTOBER 29, 2020 The text of the following statement was released by the Government of the United States and the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon. Begin text: Building on progress from their October 14 meeting, on October 28 and 29 representatives from the governments of Israel and Lebanon held productive …
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MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON OCTOBER 14, 2020 The text of the following statement was released by the Government of the United States and the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon. Begin text: Representatives from the governments of Israel, Lebanon, and the United States met on October 14 to launch discussions aimed …
Read More» Media Note Office of the Spokesperson October 12, 2020 Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Schenker will travel to Lebanon, Morocco, and the United Kingdom October 12 – October 21. Hosted by UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jan Kubis, Assistant Secretary Schenker will facilitate the opening session of negotiations between the governments …
Read More» Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo The United States welcomes the decision by the Governments of Israel and Lebanon to begin discussions on the maritime boundary. This historic agreement between the two parties was brokered by the United States and is the result of nearly three years of intense diplomatic engagement by Ambassador David Satterfield …
Read More» DAVID SCHENKER, ASSISTANT SECRETARY BUREAU OF NEAR EASTERN AFFAIRS VIA TELECONFERENCE MS ORTAGUS: Hi. Good morning, everybody, and (inaudible) for the late notice on getting the – getting this call set up, but I think everyone has seen the announcements by Secretary Pompeo, Israel, Lebanon, and so we wanted to make sure that we briefed all …
Read More» Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State For too long, Lebanon’s political leaders have ignored their responsibility to address the needs of their people and instead built a political system that serves their private interests. The August 4 explosion at the Beirut port is the most recent and tragic demonstration of Lebanon’s dysfunctional political …
Read More» Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned former Lebanese government ministers Yusuf Finyanus and Ali Hassan Khalil, who provided material support to Hizballah and engaged in corruption. These designations underscore how some Lebanese politicians have conspired with Hizballah at the expense of the Lebanese people and …
Read More» Moderator: Good evening to everyone from the Department of State’s Dubai Regional Media Hub. I would like to welcome our participants dialing in from the Middle East and around the world for this on-the-record briefing with David Schenker, the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. Assistant Secretary Schenker will provide a readout of …
Read More» Media Note Office of the Spokesperson August 28, 2020 Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Schenker will travel to Kuwait, Qatar, and Lebanon August 28 – September 4, 2020. In Kuwait, he will meet with Foreign Minister Ahmad al-Nasser al-Mohammad al-Sabah, National Assembly Speaker Marzouq al-Ghanem, and the American Chamber of Commerce …
Read More» Press Statement by Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo The United States welcomes the guilty verdict handed down by the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) against Hizballah operative Salim Ayyash for his role in the February 14, 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. This act of terrorism also claimed the lives of 21 …
Read More» Good morning. Ambassador Shea and I just had a brief tour of the port. I thought it was important to see first-hand just the devastation that occurred last week here. Seeing it on television is one thing, seeing it up close is another; it is really overwhelming. I didn’t want to take much too much …
Read More» Good evening, I just had the honor of a meeting with Patriarch Rai in which I extended the condolences from the American people and the American government to the Lebanese people and to the Patriarch for the losses from the explosion last week. We discussed that and the need for immediate humanitarian support to meet …
Read More» Good afternoon, everyone. I just landed at Beirut International Airport a little while ago and this is my first stop. I am here in Beirut today on the instructions of Secretary Pompeo to express the condolences of the American people for the Lebanese people for the losses, the suffering, and the hardship that have resulted from the explosion …
Read More» Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale will travel to Lebanon August 13-15. He will express his condolences to the Lebanese people for their losses as a result of the devastating explosion in Beirut on August 4. He will reiterate the American government’s commitment to assist the Lebanese people in recovering from the tragedy and …
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BEIRUT—In response to the horrific tragedy of August 4, the United States has now pledged over $17 million in initial disaster aid for Lebanon, which includes food assistance and medical supplies, as well as financial assistance for the Lebanese Red Cross. The Embassy expects announcements of additional aid and assistance are forthcoming. On August 6, …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 4, 2020 I’d like to extend my deepest condolences to all those affected by the massive explosion at the port of Beirut today. We are closely monitoring and stand ready to assist the people of Lebanon as they recover from this tragedy. Our team in Beirut …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea: Having witnessed the horrific explosions at the Port this evening, our heartfelt sympathies go out to the victims and their families. We mourn each loss from this terrible tragedy alongside the Lebanese people.
Read More» General Kenneth McKenzie, Commander of the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), conducted a one-day visit to Lebanon on July 8, 2020. General McKenzie met with President Aoun at Baabda Palace, where he reaffirmed the importance of preserving Lebanon’s security, stability, and sovereignty, and underscored the importance of the strong partnership between the United States and …
Read More» This year, the U.S. Embassy is commemorating our Independence Day in unprecedented fashion. The world has been collectively battling the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic, and we have all had to adjust to the “new normal” of maintaining physical distance and avoiding situations that could be conducive to the spread of the virus. So, I am …
Read More» As Delivered Foreign Minister Hitti and I just had a positive meeting in which we reinforced the importance of the bilateral relationship to each country. Among the issues we discussed was the recent court ruling. We turned the page on this unfortunate distraction so we can all focus on the real crisis at hand, which …
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Secretary Michael R. Pompeo At a Press Availability on the Release of the 2019 Country Reports on Terrorism Press Briefing Room Washington, D.C. June 24, 2020 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. Good to be with you all today. I want to start my remarks, as I often do, on matters relating to China. As many …
Read More» Fact Sheet Bureau of Political-Military Affairs May 1, 2020 U.S. security assistance for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) is a key component of U.S. policy in Lebanon and aims to strengthen Lebanon’s sovereignty, secure its borders, counter internal threats, disrupt terrorist facilitation, and build up the country’s legitimate state institutions. Key areas of cooperation include border security, maritime security, …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 30, 2020 We commend Germany for banning Hizballah in its entirety as a terrorist organization and for taking strong action against suspected Hizballah supporters. Obstructing this terrorist organization’s ability to plot terrorist attacks and to raise money will further reduce Iran’s malign behavior and influence. The …
Read More» The United States Embassy is pleased to announce $13,300,000 in new assistance to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Lebanon. These funds include $5,300,000 in United States Agency for International Development’s International Disaster Assistance for response activities focusing on the most vulnerable Lebanese, including by supporting private health facilities to properly triage, manage, and refer …
Read More» American University of Beirut, Beirut Wednesday, April 22, 2020 AS PREPARED I am speaking to you today from AUB, one of our key, longstanding partners, and I offer my special thanks to Dr. Fadlo Khouri for his tireless work for the Lebanese people, including during the Coronavirus pandemic. The U.S. government is committed to supporting …
Read More» Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC April 7, 2020 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. Glad we’re all together, everybody healthy, everybody looking good, staying apart – all fantastic. I wanted to start with just a few brief items here this morning, beginning in the Western Hemisphere. First, I want to …
Read More» STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO March 19, 2020 American citizen Amer Fakhoury, who has been in detention in Lebanon since September, is returning to the United States where he will be reunited with his family and receive urgent medical treatment. His return comes as a relief to those who have followed the case with …
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Good morning. Sabah al-kheir. I want to thank Prime Minister Diab—as well as President Aoun, Speaker Berri, and Foreign Minister Hitti—for their very warm welcome. I am honored to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and to work alongside the Lebanese people, who are famous not only for their hospitality, but also for their …
Read More» Today, the United States designated 15 Lebanon-based individuals and entities linked to the Martyrs Foundation, part of Hizballah’s financial support network, as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT) pursuant to Executive Order 13224. These designations demonstrate once again how Hizballah uses its expansive and shadowy network of companies to pursue its own malign interests and those …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 14, 2020 Today marks the 15th anniversary of the assassination of former Lebanese Premier Rafik Hariri, an act of mass murder that resulted in the deaths of 21 others and injuries of 266 victims in Beirut. Multiple Hizballah-linked individuals were indicted for their roles in this …
Read More» Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State January 22, 2020 The test of Lebanon’s new government will be its actions and its responsiveness to the demands of the Lebanese people to implement reforms and to fight corruption. Only a government that is capable of and committed to undertaking real and tangible reforms will restore …
Read More» QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, thank you for the interview. SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you. Thanks for being with me. QUESTION: You were recently traveling in Colombia. You met with Venezuelan President Juan Guaido who’s risking his life to meet with world leaders, including yourself, who will be headed to Davos. Are you hopeful that these world meetings will shift the …
Read More» Good morning everyone I am in Lebanon today, at the request of Secretary of State Pompeo, to meet with Lebanese leaders to discuss the current situation here. My visit reflects the strength of the partnership between our two countries. I am here to encourage Lebanon’s political leaders to commit to and to undertake meaningful, sustained …
Read More» Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale arrived in Lebanon today to meet with a broad range of Lebanese officials. During his visit, Under Secretary Hale, who served as U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon from 2013-2015, will underscore America’s commitment to its partnership with the state of Lebanon. He will encourage Lebanon’s political leaders …
Read More» Press Statement by Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Lebanon as they celebrate their Independence Day. Seventy-six years ago today, Lebanon became a free nation. Today, the Lebanese people are showing the entire world their commitment to this ideal. …
Read More» Treasury Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing Marshall Billingslea arrived in Lebanon today for a two-day visit, which will include meetings with a broad range of Lebanese officials. During his visit, Assistant Secretary Billingslea will highlight the strong U.S. Lebanon partnership and the U.S. government’s overall confidence in the Lebanese financial sector. In meetings with government and banking officials, …
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Good evening everyone. Dear Ministers, Members of Parliament, Military officers, colleagues from the diplomatic community, business leaders, students, and friends – thank you for being with us. And thank you to Captain Benfield for the warm welcome and for hosting us aboard this impressive vessel. We’re also glad to have Vice Admiral Malloy back in …
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On September 14, 2019, the United States Navy’s USS Ramage (DDG-61), an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, entered the port of Lebanon for a one-day goodwill visit on the sidelines of its participation in ongoing efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and free-flow commerce in the eastern Mediterranean. The USS Ramage is named for Vice Admiral Lawson …
Read More» U.S. Assistant Secretary of State of Near Eastern Affairs David Schenker met Prime Minister Saad Hariri at Grand Serail on September 9, 2019. In the meeting, Assistant Secretary Schenker reaffirmed the importance of preserving Lebanon’s security, stability, and sovereignty. The Assistant Secretary is conducting a regional tour, including stops in Lebanon, Iraq, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, …
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On August 21, Ambassador Elizabeth Richard and U.S. military representatives attended a live-fire exercise conducted by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) at the Akoura military complex. In remarks to the press, Ambassador Richard congratulated the LAF for demonstrating outstanding professionalism and sophistication in safely executing complex maneuvers using advanced-technology weaponry and equipment, calling the live-fire …
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U.S. Assistant Secretary for Energy Resources, Francis Fannon, met Prime Minister Saad Hariri at the Grand Serail on July 31, 2019. In the meeting, Assistant Secretary Fannon learned more about Lebanon’s plans for reforming its electricity sector and developing its energy resources and he conveyed U.S. support for Lebanon’s responsible and transparent development of its …
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On July 19, 2019 the Commander of United States Marine Corps Forces Central Command, Lieutenant General Carl E. Mundy, and U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth H. Richard visited Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) installations and met with senior officials. In his meetings, General Mundy highlighted the U.S. government’s partnership with Lebanon, which provided nearly $300 million of security …
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U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, Elizabeth H. Richard, celebrated the accomplishments of 38 Lebanese municipalities that completed an intensive two-year technical assistance program funded by USAID’s Building Alliances for Local Advancement, Development and Investment – Capacity Building (BALADI CAP). During her remarks, Ambassador Richard congratulated mayors and representatives, noting, “Your work is extremely important and extremely …
Read More» Good morning everybody. It is great to see such a full house and it is really great to see so many friends who I know from before. It is really a pleasure to be with you to mark this very important milestone. And I am recalling, as I saw so many familiar faces this morning, that …
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Today, U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth Richard attended the launch event of the conference on “OECD Cooperation with Lebanon on Good Governance,” organized jointly by the Office of the Minister of State for Administrative Reform (OMSAR) and the Public Governance Directorate of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The U.S. Department of State through the …
Read More» Thank you very much Madame Minister, ministers, colleagues, excellences and ladies and gentlemen. It is wonderful to be here today to launch the joint work between the OECD, us, and Lebanon. I think every Lebanese citizen knows how important it is to have a government that serves the interests of its citizens and provides comprehensive …
Read More» On May 27-28, 2019, the Commander of United States Air Force Central Command Lieutenant General Joseph Guastella met with Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces General Joseph Aoun, as well as key leaders in the LAF Air Force, while visiting Hamat Air Base and Beirut Air Base. In his meetings, General Guastella discussed the many …
Read More» Acting Assistant Secretary of State (AA/S) for Near Eastern Affairs, David Satterfield, visited Lebanon on May 14 -16 where he met President Michel Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Saad Hariri, Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil, and other officials. AA/S Satterfield also visited the Maronite Patriarchy at Bkerki where he expressed, in the name of Secretary …
Read More» Press Statement Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson May 15, 2019 On behalf of Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and the American people, we were saddened by the news of the passing of His Beatitude Cardinal Patriarch Emeritus Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir. He was a courageous leader against tyranny and oppression and a champion for the idea …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Beirut is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of His Beatitude Patriarch Emeritus Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir, staunch advocate of Lebanon’s sovereignty and independence. We offer our heartfelt condolence to the Lebanese people, and especially the Maronite community, for the loss of this national spiritual symbol, who played a pivotal role during …
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Today, U.S. Embassy Beirut Deputy Chief of Mission Edward White took part in a launching ceremony with the Ministry of Culture to mark the start of an Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) project to rehabilitate the Sidon Sea Castle. The Ministry of Culture’s Directorate General of Antiquities will implement the $100,000 grant. The Sidon …
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The latest UN 2018 Annual Report for Lebanon highlights key results and recognizes the United States as being consistently a top donor, alongside Germany, the United Kingdom and the European Union. In 2018, $724 million were invested to support Lebanon through the United Nations Strategic Framework; 93% of these United Nations funds were also used …
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Ambassador Elizabeth Richard and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Dr. Anne Patterson announced a new $90 million program to support learning outcomes for vulnerable students. Minister of Education Akram Chehayeb attended the launch of QITABI 2 (Quality Instruction towards Access and Basic Education Improvement) which follows onto USAID’s current QITABI initiative …
Read More» Good morning everyone. Thank you so much for being with us here today, Minister Akram Chehayeb, Director General Fadi Yaraq, and Dr. Nada Oweijane. And a warm thank you to the leadership at Uruguay Public School for having us. It was great to be greeted outside by the Scouts and so lovely to see their …
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Today, Ambassador Elizabeth Richard joined Internal Security Forces (ISF) Director General Imad Osman, and other ISF officials at the groundbreaking ceremony launching the construction of new facilities at the ISF Academy in Aramoun. The construction of a new dormitory and classroom buildings will provide short-term housing for the ISF trainees from outside of Beirut and …
Read More» Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) further targeted the global business operations of Hizballah by designating two individuals and three entities acting as conduits for sanctions evasion schemes. Specifically, OFAC designated Belgium-based Wael Bazzi for acting for or on behalf of his father and Hizballah financier, Mohammad …
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Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut launched the U.S.-funded “Corrections Professionalization Program.” This program will continue for three years, and includes developing and implementing a system of inmate classification in addition to continuous training for corrections officers. Following are Ambassador …
Read More» March 23, 2019 U.S. Embassy Beirut, Lebanon QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, thanks for sitting down with us. SECRETARY POMPEO: It’s great to be with you. QUESTION: I will start with Lebanon, your last stop on this trip. Yesterday you made a strong statement and you said that Lebanon and the Lebanese people have a choice: move …
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FOREIGN MINISTER BASSIL: Welcome, Mr. Secretary. Welcome in Lebanon, friend of Lebanon. (Via interpreter) I was honored to welcome the U.S. Secretary of State Mr. Mike Pompeo in a visit which is first of its kind to Lebanon. It showcases the importance and the depth of the relationships between the two countries, and it indicates …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met in Beirut today with Lebanese Forces Party Leader Samir Geagea. They discussed a number of issues, including the Lebanese government’s continued work to strengthen security and stability in the …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met in Beirut today with Walid Jumblatt, leader of Lebanon’s Druze community. They discussed a number of issues including the positive steps the recently formed government of Lebanon should take …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Lebanese President Michel Aoun in Beirut. The Secretary discussed a number of pressing bilateral and regional issues, notably the U.S. government’s strong concerns over the role of …
Read More» Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Lebanese Presidential Palace Baabda, Lebanon March 22, 2019 PRESIDENT AOUN: (Via interpreter) It gives me great pleasure to welcome Your Excellency here in Baabda. I hope we will have a very fruitful meeting with good dividends, and we are willing to talk about everything you wish to raise. I’m …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met in Beirut today with Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri. They discussed the importance of the U.S.-Lebanese security partnership and the need for continued support for Lebanon’s legitimate state security …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met in Beirut today with Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri. They discussed a number of issues related to the Lebanese economy and implementation of critical reforms, as well …
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Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met in Beirut today with Lebanese Minister of the Interior Raya Al Hassan. The Secretary and Minister Al Hassan discussed the regional and internal security challenges facing Lebanon and how …
Read More» Statement by Robert Palladino, Deputy Spokesperson Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Beirut, Jerusalem, and Kuwait City March 19-23. In Beirut, the Secretary will meet with Lebanese leaders to discuss the political, security, economic, and humanitarian challenges facing Lebanon. The Secretary’s visit will underscore U.S. support for the Lebanese people and Lebanon’s …
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United States Ambassador to Lebanon Elizabeth Richard travelled to Tripoli to visit American funded projects focused on economic development and education in Northern Lebanon. As part of the $825 million in assistance the United States provided to Lebanon in 2018, we are funding projects in northern Lebanon to provide youth with the education, tools, and …
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The United States is pleased to announce the delivery today of the shipment of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guided rockets, valued at more than $16 million, destined for the Lebanese Armed Forces. These APKWS laser-guided rockets are a key component for the Lebanese Air Force’s new A-29 Super Tucano attack aircraft. Today’s …
Read More» The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Philippe Lazzarini released the latest report of donor nation contributions to development and humanitarian work in Lebanon. The United States government was the top donor for the year 2018, and invested $494,293,328 dollars in critical water and sanitation infrastructure, creating opportunities for Lebanese citizens, agriculture, and businesses, …
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On January 21-22, 2019 the Commander of United States Central Command General Joseph Votel met with President Michel Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri, and Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces General Joseph Aoun, as well as UNIFIL Force Commander Major General Stefano Del Col, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth H. Richard. In …
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Secretary Pompeo asked me to come to Lebanon to discuss America’s regional strategy and the value of our relations with the Lebanese state and the Lebanese people, and our determination to create the conditions needed to ensure Lebanon is able to meet its international obligations. As Secretary Pompeo said in his Cairo speech, we will …
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Partnership with the Lebanese people aimed at development of the country, reduction of poverty, and improvement in the provision of public services continues year after year to be an important priority for the United States. The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Philippe Lazzarini today released the latest report of donor nation contributions to development …
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On October 29, Ambassador Elizabeth Richard visited Deir Ammar Power Station, operated by U.S. firm PrimeSouth in North Lebanon. The U.S. company has invested $75 million dollars to rehabilitate the facility and an additional $45 million in Zahrani Power Station over the past two years. Together, the power stations generate nearly half of Electricité du …
Read More» On October 25, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant Joel Rayburn concluded his visit to Lebanon where he met with Lebanese government officials, in addition to UN officials and business leaders. In his meetings, Deputy Assistant Secretary Rayburn reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to a secure, stable, and prosperous Lebanon.
Read More» Today, President Donald J. Trump signed into law the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Amendments Act (HIFPAA) of 2018, which imposes additional hard-hitting sanctions on Hizballah, a radical Islamist terrorist organization and close partner and proxy of the Iranian regime. Hizballah has kidnapped, tortured, and murdered American citizens, including in its brutal attack in 1983 on …
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Charge d’Affaires Edward White joined Lebanese American University (LAU) President Dr. Joseph Jabbra in welcoming 66 new scholarship recipients through the USAID-funded University Scholarship Program (USP). Through USP, USAID supports talented Lebanese public school graduates with full four-year scholarships that include tuition fees, housing expenses, textbooks, and a monthly stipend. As part of their program, …
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On October 16, 2018, the DTRA Director, Vayl Oxford, met with the Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, General Joseph Aoun, to discuss both border and maritime security. In partnership with the both Lebanese Army and the United Kingdom, the United States is proud to outfit and train Lebanese border units with state-of-art surveillance capabilities …
Read More» Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) officials visited Lebanon October 2-3 to promote U.S. investment in the region and meet with business partners. Since 1981, OPIC has supported private investment in Lebanon with loans, guaranties, and political risk insurance. Over its history, OPIC has committed $362 million to activities in Lebanon and currently has an active …
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Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut inaugurated a U.S. -funded Model Prison Building at the ISF Training Academy. The model prison will provide a realistic training environment for ISF officers responsible for the Lebanese corrections system. At the inauguration, Chargé …
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Today, U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth Richard took part in the inauguration ceremony organized by the Ministry of Culture marking the completion of an Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation project to rehabilitate the Eshmun Temple site. In her remarks, Ambassador Richard highlighted the close collaboration between the U.S. and the Lebanese governments to preserve Lebanon’s cultural heritage. …
Read More» Office of the Spokesperson; Washington, DC The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: Deputy Secretary Sullivan met today in Washington, D.C., with Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil, on the sidelines of the International Religious Freedom Ministerial. They discussed Lebanon’s ongoing government formation process and the U.S. government’s strong concerns over the role of Hizballah …
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Ambassador Elizabeth Richard and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Dr. Anne Patterson today delivered 100 school buses provided by USAID to public schools in 24 districts nationwide in the presence of Minister of Education and Higher Education Marwan Hamade. Starting academic year 2018-2019, this $4.6 million donation will provide access to …
Read More» Remarks by Deputy Chief of Mission Edward White Good morning Minister Bassil, Bishop Khairallah, Messrs. Lahoud, Geagea, Khoury, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. I am delighted to be with you here today in this beautiful region to inaugurate the Bchaaleh (B-cha’ali) rehabilitated hiking trails and to be in the presence of these spectacular olive trees. …
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U.S. Ambassador Richard participated on July 6 in the official handover ceremony for a new $9 million secure digital radio system for the Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF). This system includes over 2,700 handheld and vehicle mounted radios, as well as a secure system of base stations and communications relays to provide widespread network coverage. …
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Ambassador Richard Independence Day Remarks July 3, 2018 Thank you very very much everyone for being here. And I really want to specially say thank you to our National anthem singers – that was beautiful – thank you so much. I thank everyone today for joining us to celebrate American Independence Day. In particular, also …
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Ambassador Elizabeth Richard spoke on Tuesday June 12 at the Hamat Air Base on the occasion of the delivery of four A-29 Super Tucano aircrafts to the Lebanese Armed Forces. Good afternoon. General Aoun, Major General Shreim, General Haykal, our brothers and sisters in the LAF and the air force and dear guests. It is …
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Thank you very much, it is nice to see everybody and thank you very much for coming out on a Saturday. I think it is really important that we have the opportunity to spend a few minutes with you as Tomorrow’s Leaders graduates because you are so special to us at the U.S. Embassy, but …
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Class of 2018 graduates, parents, LAU President Jabra, LAU Vice President Dr. Salem, LAU faculty and staff, I am honored to be with you today to mark this joyous occasion. In my opinion, of all the things we do as the U.S. government and the U.S. Embassy here, the Tomorrow’s Leaders program is one of …
Read More» U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led a Congressional delegation that concluded a one-day visit to Lebanon on Monday. The delegation’s meetings with Prime Minister Hariri, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun, and UNIFIL Deputy Head of Mission Imran Riza focused on security cooperation between the United States and Lebanon. The delegation also visited the …
Read More» Thank you, Salim (Zenni- President of the American-Lebanese Chamber of Commerce), for that introduction. It is a pleasure to be here today and to support the American-Lebanese Chamber of Commerce. We have enjoyed a strong partnership with the AmCham for over twenty years. Together, we have a fruitful history of advocating for and encouraging increased …
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Minister Mashnouk, Minister Pharaon, Director General Osman, it’s very nice to see you here today, everyone, all our friends and colleagues, especially those who will be working in this very building. It gives me great pleasure to join you this morning for the re-opening of the Ashrafieh Community Police Station. This location represents much more …
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U.S. Ambassador Richard participated on May 22 in the inauguration ceremony for the newly refurbished police station in Ashrafieh. For this project, the U.S. Embassy worked with the ISF to convert the existing location into a new community policing station, focused on direct engagement with the local community. Minister of Interior Nouhad al-Mashnouq, Director General …
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On April 20, 2018, the Commander of United States Central Command General Joseph Votel met with President Michel Aoun, President of the Council of Ministers Saad Hariri, and Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces General Joseph Aoun, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth H. Richard. In his meetings, General Votel reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to …
Read More» THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 7, 2018 Statement by President Donald J. Trump on Lebanon I send my greetings to those who participated in the April 6 “CEDRE” Investment Conference on Lebanon and the Lebanese people. Lebanon is a country facing countless challenges, including an unprecedented influx of …
Read More» U.S. Army Central (ARCENT) Deputy Commander Major General Terrence J. McKenrick concluded his visit to Lebanon. During his visit, he met with Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander General Joseph Aoun and other senior LAF officials, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Elizabeth H. Richard. In his meetings, Major General McKenrick renewed the U.S. government’s commitment …
Read More» Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC March 15, 2018 The United States today renewed its support for two of Lebanon’s vital national institutions, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and Internal Security Forces (ISF), in Rome at the conference in support of Lebanese state security services. U.S. delegate and Senior Bureau Official for …
Read More» On March 1 and 2, 2018, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Counselor Thomas H. Staal visited Lebanon. Formerly a Mission Director at USAID/Lebanon and now senior USAID official, Staal visited projects in Beirut and Mount Lebanon, where he met beneficiaries and saw first-hand the impact of $345 million of assistance provided by USAID/Lebanon since 2015. Staal and Acting …
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Grand Serail Beirut, Lebanon February 15, 2018 PRIME MINISTER HARIRI: I’ll speak in English, so — SECRETARY TILLERSON: Okay. PRIME MINISTER HARIRI: I welcome Secretary Tillerson to Lebanon and thank him for the excellent discussion we had earlier. His visit is a clear testimony of the United States commitment to Lebanon’s political and economic …
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US Ambassador Elizabeth Richard and Commander of the U.S. Central Command, General Joseph Votel, met Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Following are Ambassador Richard and General Votel’s statements following the meeting: Ambassador Richard: “I am very pleased to have General Votel, the Commander of the U.S. Central Command, returning to Beirut, here with us today. We …
Read More» Paris, 8 December 2017 – Joint Statement – A meeting of the International Support Group for Lebanon (ISG), chaired by the United Nations and France and attended by the Prime Minister of Lebanon, was held in Paris on 8 December. China, Egypt, Germany, Italy, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, the League …
Read More» U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will participate in the International Support Group (ISG) for Lebanon ministerial on Friday, December 8, 2017 in Paris, France. The Secretary’s participation in the ISG demonstrates the United States’ strong support for the sovereignty, stability, and independence of the Republic of Lebanon and of its political institutions. Secretary Tillerson …
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Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs (SAF/IA) Ms. Heidi Grant visited Lebanon from November 7-10. Ms. Grant provides oversight and guidance for international policy and programs supporting national security objectives through political military affairs; security assistance programs; technology and information disclosure; and education and training. Her portfolio includes Foreign Military Sales …
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Today, Ambassador Elizabeth Richard, accompanied by Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force for International Affairs Ms. Heidi Grant, met with LAF Commander Joseph Aoun to announce the U.S. Government’s reimbursement of $42.9 million for LAF Border Operations. The following are her remarks at the meeting: “Thank you General Aoun and thank you everybody for being …
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Ambassador Elizabeth H. Richard joined Chief Justice Jean Fahed, General Prosecutor Samir Hammoud, and a visiting delegation from Northeastern University —from Boston, Massachusetts — at the Justice Palace to launch a two-day seminar on justice. The Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is hosting a seminar discussing alternatives to …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy Beirut extends its deepest condolences to the people of Lebanon, particularly the families of the fallen Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) soldiers, kidnapped by ISIS, in August 2014. We also offer our sincere condolences for the soldiers who were killed in the line of duty during the “Fajr al-Jouroud” operation. Today, our flag …
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On the occasion of the 241st anniversary of American independence, Ambassador Elizabeth H. Richard hosted a ceremony on June 30, 2017 at the Faqra archaeological site in Kfardebian. The event was attended by Lebanese officials, members of Parliament, and Embassy partners in a variety of fields including civil society, academia, development, the arts, business, and …
Read More» Representative Harold Rogers (R-KY) led a delegation of six Congressmen including Representatives David Price (D-NC), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN), David Joyce (R-OH), and Evan Jenkins (R-WV) to visit Lebanon on April 12. The delegation met with Prime Minister Saad Hariri and Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Joseph Awn during their visit and discussed the …
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The Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has provided $650,000 in security screening equipment for the Rafiq Hariri International Airport, U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth Richard announced at a handover ceremony on April 11. The handover ceremony was attended by Minister of Interior Nuhad Al Mashnouq, Director General of the Internal …
Read More» The U.S. Department of State’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut is sponsoring a leadership and management training seminar for 19 high-ranking Lebanese police officials. The January 16-27 training will be conducted by the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute, as part of the U.S. government’s efforts …
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Today, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Elizabeth Richard participated in a ceremony to celebrate the delivery of an armed Cessna aircraft to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), highlighting the U.S. commitment to Lebanon’s security. Ambassador Richard said the U.S. is proud to deliver this Cessna, the third in the LAF air force, and she reaffirmed the …
Read More» U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Anne W. Patterson arrived in Lebanon today. She will meet with a range of Lebanese officials to discuss security, humanitarian, political, and economic issues and underscore U.S. support for the Lebanese people and institutions.
Read More» On December 6, 2016, USAID Mission Director Dr. Anne Patterson and Minister of Tourism, Mr. Michel Pharaon, inaugurated the third National Rural Tourism Forum at Le Royal Hotel, Beirut. The forum, organized by Beyond Beirut and the USAID-funded Lebanon Industry Value Chain Development (LIVCD) project, brought together more than 100 experts and stakeholders from the …
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