Rome: The first batch of vehicles donated by Italy to the Lebanese Armed Forces, and 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines for the local population, have been delivered at the port of Beirut.
“This first vehicle delivery is a tangible sign of Italy’s closeness to … Lebanon, its people and the Lebanese Armed Forces,” said Italian Defense Minister Lorenzo Guerini.
He said Rome is committed to supporting the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and contributing to the country’s stability.
“The bonds of friendship between Italy and Lebanon are rooted in our shared Mediterranean identity,” he said.
“Our continued presence in that country since 1980 is a clear testament to our commitment to peace and stability throughout the region.”
Two 20-seat buses, a tanker and an inflatable boat were delivered as the donation’s first installation that will be completed by the end of the year.
Italian Joint Command Operations Commander General Francesco Paolo Figuolo said the donation would “facilitate the mobility” of the LAF, which is “a strategic priority”.