Minister of National Defense, Maurice Sleem, affirmed Sunday that “the army is performing all its tasks to the fullest, despite the challenges facing the military institution in wake of the huge crisis facing the country.”

Sleem’s words came during his meeting at his ministry office with the Irish Minister of Defense and Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, in the presence of the Irish Ambassador to Lebanon and residing in Egypt, Sean O’regan, the Consul General of Ireland in Lebanon, Ambassador George Siam, and the accompanying delegation.

During the meeting, Minister Sleem stressed the importance of supporting Lebanon in international forums, whether in terms of Ireland’s participation in the current session of the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member, or within the framework of the European Union.”

He also expressed Lebanon’s appreciation for all the efforts made by Ireland in providing political assistance and support in light of the excellent historical relations between the two countries.

Talks also touched on the general situation in Lebanon, particularly in the South, where Minister Sleem stressed “Lebanon’s commitment to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and its respect for all their implications,” while condemning the repeated Israeli aggressions and violations by land, sea and air.

In this connection, the National Defense Minister valued the role and contribution of Ireland’s contingent operating within UNIFIL peacekeepers in South Lebanon and their sacrifices made for the sake of preserving security and peace.