The Italian government has donated military vehicles and other equipment to Lebanon as a “sign of tangible closeness” between the two friendly nations.
Two 20-seater buses, a tanker, and an inflatable boat arrived in the Port of Beirut last week as a first installment of the Italian donation expected to be complete this year.
Italian Defense Minister Lorenzo Guerini said that the delivery reflects Rome’s commitment to supporting the UN Interim Force in Lebanon to help stabilize the country.
“The bond of friendship between Italy and Lebanon has deep historical roots based on our common Mediterranean identity,” he said, as quoted by Arab News. “Our continued presence in that country since 1980 is a clear testimony to our commitment to peace and stability across the entire region.”
Italian Joint Command Operations Gen. Francesco Paolo Figliuolo explained that the equipment will facilitate greater mobility for the Lebanese armed forces, which is considered a “strategic priority.”
‘Pillar of International Commitment’
Lebanon recently conducted a turnover ceremony at a Beirut naval base with several key figures in attendance, including Italian Ambassador Nicoletta Bombardiere, Italian Defense Attaché Col. Marco Zona, and Figliuolo.
According to the Italian Embassy in Beirut, the delivery of military equipment builds on the “continuous collaboration” between Lebanon and its European ally.
The equipment is one of the “pillars of the international commitment” to support Lebanese military modernization.
“In this context, the Italian Defense remains committed to initiatives aimed at facilitating the mobility of the Lebanese Armed Forces, being a strategic requirement and a priority for them,” the Embassy said.
