UK and Lebanon sign MOU to strengthen security co-operation

The United Kingdom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Lebanon's Ministry of Interior and Municipalities and Ministry of Defence, reaffirming its long-standing partnership with Lebanon's security institutions. 

The UK's Integrated Security Fund will support a 31-month Internal Security Assistance Programme for the Internal Security Forces (ISF) and the Lebanese Army totalling up to £16.3 million.

The UK's partnership with the Lebanese Army, the Internal Security Forces, and their respective ministries will contribute to strengthen security, stability, state authority and institutional resilience in Lebanon. It will support professional, accountable and effective responses to current and emerging internal and external security challenges, including counter-terrorism activities and criminal violence. 

British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell said:

The United Kingdom is proud to stand alongside Lebanon and its security institutions. This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared commitment to a more secure, stable and resilient Lebanon, and to supporting professional state institutions, such as the Lebanese Army and ISF that serve and protect the Lebanese people.

The UK has been a close partner of the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces since 2009.