Delegation of the US Congress meets PM Mikati, President Aoun

Prime Minister Najib Mikati received on Saturday an American delegation that included Representatives of Congress Darrell Issa and Darin Lahood, President of the American Task Force on Lebanon Edward Gabriel, and members Mike Ahmar, Hania Ahmar, Mckay Lahood, James McClellan, in the presence of US Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea.

 

For his part, Mikati expressed his appreciation for “the USA standing by Lebanon and its continuous support for the army,” underlining “Lebanon's commitment to implementing international resolutions, as well as maintaining security and stability.”

 

The US delegation in turn stressed on “standing by Lebanon at various levels and supporting the efforts of the Lebanese government,” emphasizing the “necessity to end political differences in order to focus on addressing economic and social situations.”

 

Later in the day, the US delegation visited President Michel Aoun, whereby he confirmed that “Lebanon is looking forward to the United States' support for reform programs,” noting that “Lebanon has begun its journey out of the severe economic crisis in which it is living by preparing a program for negotiations with the International Monetary fund (IMF).”

 

He also pointed out that his country “is looking forward to resuming indirect negotiations to demarcate the southern maritime borders with the aim of reaching an agreement that guarantees Lebanon's right to invest its natural resources in oil and gas fields.”

 

On another note, he clarified that “an understanding was reached with PM Mikati on issues discussed and reforms,” highlighting that “the conditions the government is going through will not remain.”

 

In turn, US Congressmen Darrell Issa and Darin Lahood indicated that Congress is looking forward to the President of the Republic’s role at this stage, and that they are interested in reviving the economy.”