UK stresses support for Lebanon's security

A senior British diplomat reiterated on Wednesday his country's "long-standing support for Lebanon's security, stability and prosperity," the UK Embassy said in a press statement.

Tobias Ellwood, under secretary at Britain's foreign and commonwealth office for Middle East and North Africa affairs, made the pledge following his meeting with Lebanon's Prime Minister Tammam Salam, which was attended by British Ambassador to Lebanon Tom Fletcher.

"UK's support for Lebanon alone now totals 273 million U.S. dollars. This support is helping build the army's capacity, assisting Lebanon in hosting over one million refugees from Syria through humanitarian and development activities, and supporting those working for political stability," he said.

Ellwood pointed out that the Britain is now "the largest donor to the World Bank/Government of Lebanon Trust Fund, with a contribution of 30 million dollars," adding that "We are backing Lebanese stability, not just in words, but also in deeds."

He reaffirmed that challenges facing Lebanon must not be underestimated, vowing to continue to stand beside the Arab country to combat terrorism.

Speaking of the vacuum in the presidency post, Ellwood urged Lebanese leaders "to engage in dialogue to elect a new president who can lead Lebanon in facing today's many challenges."

On the economic ties, he added that "by July next year, bilateral trade would have doubled in four years to 700 million pound sterling. And we stand ready to help Lebanon take full advantage of the gas reserve located offshore, indeed British company Spectrum is helping with the surveying as we speak."

Ellwood arrived in Lebanon Tuesday on an official visit. He met with parliament Speaker Nabih berry and is scheduled to meet with other Lebanese officials.

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