Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren visited Lebanon, reaffirming UK support for the country’s stability following the election of President Aoun and the formation of a new government. He met with key officials to discuss future cooperation, emphasizing support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and UN peacekeeping efforts.
Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the UK Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa, completed a two-day visit to Lebanon, where he engaged with high-ranking Lebanese and UN officials. During his visit, he congratulated President Aoun on his election and the establishment of a new government, which he views as a transformative moment for Lebanon’s future security and prosperity. Ahlgren reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to Lebanon’s long-term stability and security.
Throughout his visit, Vice Admiral Ahlgren met with prominent figures including President Joseph Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, Defence Minister Michel Menassa, and Major General Hassan Audeh, among others. Accompanying him were UK Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne and Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith, further emphasizing the UK’s diplomatic engagement in the region.
Upon concluding the visit, Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne stated that the recent election of a President and new government symbolizes a new phase for Lebanon’s stability and prosperity. She highlighted discussions around the government’s strategic roadmap for recovery, including the critical implementation of the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024.
In his remarks, Vice Admiral Ahlgren expressed satisfaction in meeting President Joseph Aoun again and reaffirmed the UK’s intention to collaborate closely with the Lebanese government and support its Armed Forces as the legitimate military authority in the country. He also reiterated the UK’s backing of UNIFIL peacekeeping operations, which play an essential role in ensuring Lebanon’s security. Ahlgren noted that Lebanon’s stability is pivotal for the broader regional equilibrium and reaffirmed the UK’s enduring friendship with Lebanon and its Armed Forces.
In summary, Vice Admiral Ahlgren’s visit underscores the UK’s dedication to fostering Lebanon’s security and stability during this significant transition phase. With expressions of support for the newly elected leadership and the operational activities of UNIFIL, the visit highlights the importance of collaborative efforts aimed at achieving comprehensive stability not only in Lebanon but also in the surrounding region.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
