Lieutenant General Sir John Lorimer, the UK’s Defense Senior Adviser to the Middle East and North Africa, ended a one day visit to Lebanon on 18 February.

General Lorimer held high level meetings with Lebanese officials, accompanied by British Ambassador Chris Rampling and Defense Attaché, Lieutenant Colonel Alex Hilton, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported.

According to a press release by the British Embassy in Beirut, his meetings included discussions with President Michel Aoun, Parliamentary Speaker Nabih Berri, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Zeina Akar, and Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun.

General Lorimer discussed the current situation in Lebanon, and the role of the Lebanese Army and Security Forces in maintaining security and stability as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.  

At the end of his visit, General Lorimer said: “This is a crucial time for Lebanon and its new government as it tackles huge economic challenges. Urgent action is needed. I held constructive meetings with Lebanese officials and reaffirmed UK’s support to the Lebanese Armed Forces who are key to Lebanon’s security, stability and sovereignty. Our partnership and friendship between our armed forces continues.”

Ambassador Chris Rampling said: “There should now be no delay on the detailed economic plan the government has promised, the necessary decisions, and urgent implementation. Time is running out. This crisis needs an inclusive and urgent response to the legitimate demands, with calm and clear judgment on what lies ahead.”