BEIRUT, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Visiting U.S. Central Command Commander General Joseph L. Votel hailed Wednesday the progress that has been made in securing Lebanon's borders with Syria.
Votel made the remarks when visiting the eastern border town of Arsal along with Lebanese Army chief General Joseph Aoun, a statement by the U.S. embassy said.
"It is wonderful to be back in Lebanon and here up in Arsal. We deeply value the relationship with the Lebanese Armed Forces and the work they are doing to keep Lebanon safe, as we're seeing here today," Votel said at the Dahr al-Jabal overlook in Arsal.
"We had very productive conversations and we've reaffirmed our shared commitment to ensuring stability and security in this important part of the world. We have many common interests that include the defeat of Daesh (Islamic State group) and other violent extremist and terrorist organizations, and we intend to continue to work together to address these and the other challenges that are presented to us," Votel went on to say.
Describing the Lebanese army as one of "the most capable and valued partners," Votel said Washington is "proud to support them as the sole defenders of Lebanon."
"We look forward to building upon the strong foundation that exists between our militaries in the coming days," Votel added.
