
Fletcher hands PM Mikati support letter from Cameron
Tuesday, Jan 31, 2012
British Ambassador Tom Fletcher on Tuesday handed Prime Minister Najib Mikati a letter from his British counterpart, David Cameron, opening a new phase in British backing for stability, growth and reform.
Responding to Prime Minister Mikati's visit to London, and Lebanon's clear indication that it would continue to honor international obligations, Prime Minister Cameron set out a 'package to provide substantial support to Lebanon's future as a sovereign, independent and dynamic partner'.
He confirmed that Britain would more than double training programs to the Lebanese armed forces, and expressed support for the Code of Conduct announced by the Internal Security Forces. Prime Minister Cameron also suggested plans to provide expertise in supporting Lebanese economic growth, and set a target for an increase of 20% in bilateral trade.
The new package also included initiatives in the health and education sectors, including links between UK and Lebanese schools, and enhanced access to English language resources. It looked forward to sporting cooperation, including at the London 2012 Olympics.
Prime Minister Cameron's proposals will be the platform for an exciting year for the bilateral relationship, including plans for a British week in June and celebrations of HM Queen's 60th Jubilee.
Fletcher also updated Prime Minister Mikati on the embassy's Leb2020 initiative.
Separately, PM Mikati held a meeting with Ministers Muhammad Al-Safadi, Ahmed Karameh, Nicolas Nahas and Faysal Karameh with talks featuring high on projects concerning Tripoli and North Lebanon.
The Tourism Minister Fadi Abboud had also met Premier Mikati with whom he discussed touristic affairs, shedding light on the Lebanese touristic conditions.
The Minister who uttered worry over the regress in the local touristic activity, said tourism had lately witnessed a loss of more than 300 thousand tourists who used to enter Lebanon through its land borders.
"Touristic promotion campaigns have become a necessity at this stage," he said.
Amongst Mikati's visitors were also former MP Jihad Al-Samad and Lebanese Army Intelligence Chief, Brigadier General Edmond Fadel.


