Britain reaffirms support to Lebanon's security, stability

British Secretary for Middle East Affairs Tobias Ellwood reaffirmed on Wednesday his country's support to the security and stability of Lebanon and its fight against terrorism.
In a statement after meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Tammam Salam, Ellwood said "we must not underestimate the challenges facing Lebanon, we will continue to stand beside the Lebanese state to combat terrorism." The British minister expressed appreciation for the Lebanese role in responding to the humanitarian crisis caused by the Syrian conflict that forced hundreds of thousands of people to seek refuge in Lebanon.
"I also spoke of our appreciation for the Government and country's response to the humanitarian situation. UK support for Lebanon alone now totals USD 273 million," Ellwood said.
"We also discussed the presidential vacuum, I urge Lebanese leaders to engage in dialogue to elect a new President who can lead Lebanon in facing today's many challenges," said Ellwood.
"Finally we spoke of the bilateral economic relationship and I'm pleased to see that by July next year, bilateral trade would have doubled in four years to Pound 700 million," Ellwood added.