The minister met Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil and
Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk, the heads of the
Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), Internal Security
Forces (ISF) and General
Security, as well as other senior security staff.
The United Kingdom has committed £81 million since 2011
to supporting Lebanese security through a partnership
with Lebanese security forces and the minister had the
opportunity to witness UK projects which support
the LAF and ISF.
At Hamat Air Base, the minister saw how
the LAF are effectively
countering Daesh in the Qalamoun region, discussed the
UK’s support in securing Lebanon’s border with Syria and
observed a live training demonstration on countering
improvised explosive devices.
He discussed internal security matters with Director
General Osman, and visited the ISF Academy where
the UK is helping train officers. He also visited police
stations, modelled on those in the UK, and discussed the
benefits of improved and increased inspections on
professionalism and standards.
Security Minister said:
It was a privilege to visit Lebanon for the first time.
More than ever, the UK is committed to working with
countries in this region and around the whole world to
tackle the threat from terrorism and violent extremism.
We have committed £81 million of security assistance to
Lebanon since 2011 to maintain security and stability
and Lebanon is a strong and effective partner for the
UK on security and counter-terrorism.
