Talks between Defense Minister Elias Murr and U.S. officials on supporting the Lebanese army have reached agreement on several points, including military aid that will arrive early next month as well as army needs for the coming three, five and 10 years.

U.S. sources said the Lebanese army has made a “qualitative leap” in the presentation of its strategy.

The U.S. government, however, expressed the need for a strategic vision in the form of a military plan for the development of the Lebanese Army in order to help guide U.S. Assistance Programs to meet Lebanese needs.
Murr said he was satisfied with the meetings in Washington “since the Lebanese army now has a road map for its needs.”

“The Lebanese army also has a clear strategy – ‘what army for what mission’ – for the first time since independence (from France),” Murr added.