Qahwaji from London: Lebanon Will Overcome 'Critical Situation'

Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji stressed on Tuesday that Lebanon will be able to overcome the “critical situation” as long as its people are backing the military institution.

“We will not go back in time. The army will not allow anyone to use Lebanon as a sanctuary for importing or exporting strife,” Qahwaji said during a meeting with the Lebanese community in the UK.

He pointed out that the army's role is to preserve democracy and freedom in Lebanon in addition to the country's sovereignty and independence.

Qahwaji traveled to London on September 23 on a five-day visit where he is set to hold talks with a number of British officials.

The army commander stated that the challenges confronting the military institution are numerous.

However, Qahwaji said that the army was able to control the Lebanese-Syrian border, prevent the smuggling of arms and accomplished several missions to preserve the security situation in the country.

He is scheduled to meet with David Ashley, head of the British Foreign Office's Levant Regional Team, to discuss military aid to the Lebanese army.