By Wassim Seifeddine

Lebanese President Michel Aoun expressed hope Tuesday that U.S. support for the Lebanese army would continue "to allow Lebanon to defend itself". While receiving U.S. Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the U.S. Senate’s foreign relations committee, Aoun stressed his keenness to maintain "strong Lebanese-American relations and cooperation" with a view to preserving the stability of Lebanon, according to a statement released by the Lebanese presidency. "I hope that U.S. support for the Lebanese army -- in terms of both weapons and equipment -- will continue, especially in light of the balance of power between the Lebanese army and its counterparts in surrounding states," the statement added. At a meeting between Aoun and Corker, the two men discussed the current situation in Lebanon and in neighboring Syria, according to the statement. Corker, for his part, reiterated Washington’s commitment to helping Lebanon in various fields of endeavor. Corker also met with Suleiman Frangieh, leader of Lebanon’s Marada Movement, which is known for its close ties with the Syrian regime, at the latter’s residence in northern Lebanon. Corker arrived in Beirut on Monday for a three-day visit, during which he is expected to discuss issues related to U.S. military assistance with Lebanese officials.