US Congressman Darin LaHood: Lebanese Officials Must Elect a Sovereign President
US Congressman Darin LaHood stresses the importance of Lebanon electing a sovereign head of state, during a meeting with Samir Geagea on December 16, 2024. ©Al-Markazia

US Congressman Darin LaHood underscored on Monday the importance of Lebanon electing a president who respects the nation’s sovereignty and independence, with presidential elections set for January 9.

During a meeting in Meerab with Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea, LaHood highlighted the critical period Lebanon is undergoing.

“With the presidential elections nearing, Lebanon must elect a president who upholds the country’s sovereignty and independence while prioritizing its future,” he stated.

LaHood stressed the need for capable and incorruptible leadership at this pivotal time. “We must ensure the president is incorruptible and capable of seizing the rare opportunity before us. Given Hezbollah’s recent setbacks, the developments in Syria, and Iran's weakened position, Lebanon finds itself at a pivotal moment in history,” he said, adding, “This is the time to support a president who prioritizes Lebanon’s best interests.”

Highlighting the United States’ commitment, the Congressman said, “The United States looks forward to collaborating constructively with like-minded allies, particularly the Quintet Committee and others, to identify such a leader. As a member of Congress, I am eager to work with President Trump’s new administration and his team to chart a new path for Lebanon and achieve positive change.”

Following the meeting, LaHood presented Geagea with a silver plaque featuring the US Congress emblem. In turn, Geagea signed a map of Lebanon, which LaHood will take back as a keepsake of his ancestral roots.

Expressing pride in his heritage, LaHood concluded, “I am deeply proud of my Lebanese heritage and honored to co-chair the US-Lebanon Friendship Caucus in Congress.”

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