“This visit reflects the warm relationship Australia shares with Lebanon, and builds on the strong and established bilateral ties between our two countries, which include close co-operation in counter-terrorism and law enforcement,” Minister Pyne said.

“Promoting security, stability and prosperity in the Middle East continues to be an important national security interest for Australia.”

Minister Pyne said Australia will gift 10 refurbished Land Rover 4x4 Cargo vehicles and four refurbished Land Rover 6x6 Ambulance vehicles to Lebanon.

“The gifting of these vehicles is symbolic of the close co-operation between our two countries. Australia has a deep and enduring interest in Lebanon’s security and stability, underpinned by our strong bilateral and community links, and I am honoured to be able to support the Lebanese Armed Forces," Minister Pyne said.

“This gift will assist the Lebanese Armed Forces and make a direct and positive contribution to Lebanon’s continued stability."

While in Lebanon, Minister Pyne met with President Michel Aoun, Prime Minister-designate Saad Al-Hariri; Speaker Nabih Berri, Minister of Defense Yacoub Sarraf; and General Joseph Aoun, Commander in Chief of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

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ADF personnel deployed on Operation PALADIN are serving in Lebanon as part of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation. The vehicles will be transported to Lebanon some time this year.