US Gen. Votel Expected in Beirut Current Week

Gen. Joseph Votel, head of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), is expected to arrive in Beirut on Friday leading a “large” delegation of senior aides, al-Joumhouria daily reported Wednesday.

Votel’s visit carries a “special significance,” and comes after the Rome II conference that was held on March 14 and 15, dedicated to strengthening the capabilities of the Lebanese army, security and military services, said the daily.

The visit also comes after the US-French-British triple strikes on Syria, it added.

Votel is expected to meet with senior Lebanese officials, including the army chief, to assess developments in the region and discuss ways to enhance cooperation between the regional leadership and Lebanon.