U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly met with Lebanese Forces chief Dr. Samir Geagea today to discuss the political and security situation in Lebanon, as well as other regional issues.
Ambassador Connelly reaffirmed that government formation is a Lebanese process and that the Lebanese people deserve a government that strengthens Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and independence while fulfilling its international obligations. She noted the U.S. hoped to see a formation of a government with which the United States would be able to work more closely.
Ambassador Connelly regretted the failure of some parties to respect the Baabda Declaration and noted that interference in Syria by those parties endanger Lebanon’s sovereignty, stability, and security.
The Ambassador expressed concern about sectarian tensions in Lebanon and shared her belief that the Lebanese Christian community plays an important role along with other faith communities in Lebanon to bridge political divisions and contribute to a more democratic region that respects and protects the rights of all citizens.