U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate meetings with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Washington on Monday, with discussions focusing on regional security, Lebanon, Iran, Gaza and Sudan.
During his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Lebanon as it works to implement the Trilateral Framework, which the United States describes as the path toward a durable peace between Lebanon and Israel.
According to a U.S. State Department readout, Rubio praised the Salam government’s efforts to extend the authority of the Lebanese state and reiterated U.S. support for Lebanon’s sovereignty. The Secretary also emphasized Washington’s position that Lebanon should remain free from the influence of Hezbollah and Iran.
In a separate meeting, Rubio received Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Washington.
The two officials continued discussions held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York and reviewed bilateral cooperation as well as regional security and stability.
According to the State Department, the discussions covered developments involving Iran, Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan, along with other regional issues.
The meetings come amid continued U.S. diplomatic engagement with Middle Eastern partners on conflicts and security challenges across the region.
