The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) chief General Lloyd J. Austin III visited Beirut on Saturday to renew Washington's commitment to provide military aid to Lebanon, the U.S. Embassy announced.

The General met with Prime Minister Tammam Salam and Lebanese Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji, the U.S. mission said in a press release.

“Austin reiterated the confidence of the United States in the capabilities” of the Lebanese army, it stated.

“The United States will continue to support the army in its role as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon,” the embassy quoted him as saying.

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