Vice Admiral Ahlgren Reaffirms UK Support for Lebanon’s Stability
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Raven Ruma
- . November 21, 2024
- . Update: November 21, 2024 9:00 pm
Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the UK Defence Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, visited Lebanon yesterday. During the talks with officials he urged for an immediate ceasefire and a political solution as per UNSC Resolution 1701. He also offered condolences for the lives lost among Lebanese soldiers, officers, and civilians.
During his visit Vice Admiral Ahlgren held discussions with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, General Joseph Aoun, the Chief of Defence for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), and Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon. He also had a virtual meeting with Major General Aroldo Lázaro, the UNIFIL Force Commander and Head of Mission. He was joined by British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell and Defence Attaché Lt. Colonel Charles Smith.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren said, “In my meetings, I reaffirmed the UK’s support for the Lebanese Armed Forces as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon. The UK is committed to helping build a stable and secure future.”
British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said, “The situation in Lebanon is worsening, and civilian casualties are increasing. We must prevent Lebanon from becoming another Gaza. The UK is calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, respect for humanitarian law, and continued humanitarian support for Lebanon and the region.
“Vice Admiral Ahlgren’s visit shows the strong military partnership between the UK and Lebanon. The UK remains committed to Lebanon’s stability, with the LAF as the country’s sole legitimate military force.”
