The United Kingdom's senior defense adviser for the Middle East and North Africa region, Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, reaffirmed Thursday his country's support for Lebanon's stability following a two-day visit during which he met with senior Lebanese officials and United Nations representatives.

In a statement from the U.K. Embassy in Beirut, Ahlgren reiterated London's commitment to Lebanon's long-term stability and security. He also extended his "congratulations" to General Joseph Aoun for his election to the presidency, which took place on Jan. 9. Aoun's arrival at the Baabda palace, along with the formation of a new government a month later, was described by the vice admiral as a "sign of hope and change for the future," according to the text.

During his visit, the vice admiral met with several political and U.N. figures, including President Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Defense Minister Michel Menassa, acting Lebanese army commander General Hassan Audi, new army commander General Rodolphe Haykal, as well as the chief of staff of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), General Jean-Jacques Fatinet. Edward Ahlgren was accompanied by British Chargé d'Affaires Victoria Dunne and Defense Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith.

Smith affirmed that London will continue to "work closely" with the Lebanese state and "support the Lebanese armed forces," which he described as the "only legitimate military force," adding that "Lebanon's future stability is crucial for regional stability."