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Foreign Secretary meets Lebanese Prime Minister

Foreign Secretary William Hague: "The UK strongly supports a stable, peaceful and prosperous future for Lebanon."

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Following a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Miqati today, Foreign Secretary William Hague said:

“I am delighted to welcome the Prime Minister to London at this historic time for our country.

“The UK strongly supports a stable, peaceful and prosperous future for Lebanon. Our talks covered the importance of continuing the National Dialogue in Lebanon. I also welcomed the recent decision of the Lebanese Government to support the Special Tribunal for Lebanon through its annual contribution.

“We discussed the appalling violence in Syria. I welcomed the efforts of the Lebanese authorities to work with the international community to address the threat of regional instability, including steps to strengthen Lebanon’s control of its border with Syria. We discussed how to support Joint Special Envoy Annan’s efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis, and I emphasised the importance of a political transition.

“The Syrian people are paying a terrible price. Thousands have died, and many more been forced to abandon their homes. The UK will continue to offer support to Syria’s neighbours as they address the desperate humanitarian situation, including Lebanon, which has shown generosity and compassion towards many Syrian refugees.

“I wish the Lebanese Olympic team every success in London.”

Published 26 July 2012