UK chargé Victoria Dunne inaugurates new military accommodation facility in Hamat

Ahead of Lebanese Army Day on August 1, the UK Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne, accompanied by UK Defense Attaché Lt. Col. Charles Smith, inaugurated a new military accommodation facility in Hamat on Thursday, July 31.

The building, funded by the UK Ministry of Defense, will support UK personnel to deliver a variety of training and support to various Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) units. This includes leadership development for junior officers and infantry skills courses, including for female LAF personnel.

"The UK continues to be a steadfast supporter of the LAF, the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon, supporting with training, kit and equipment," a British embassy statement said.

Chargé D’Affaires Dunne said: "A huge congratulations to the LAF on their 80th anniversary whose bravery defending Lebanon internally and on the borders is admirable. I am thrilled to be in Hamat today to inaugurate this new accommodation facility. We are proud of our partnership with the LAF and ongoing support for the development of its capabilities, including through training."

Defense Attaché Smith for his part said: "Today is another milestone for UK-Lebanese defense cooperation. The provision of accommodation and facilities will assist UK personnel in delivering high-impact training to various LAF brigades and units, including to female officers and soldiers. And it also demonstrates that the UK remains a proud and enduring partner to the LAF."