US Embassy in Beirut
In honor of the 249th Anniversary of the United States of America's Independence Day, the Embassy of the United States of America held a reception attended by his Excellency Michel Menassa, Minister of National Defense representing the President of the Republic Joseph Aoun, the Honorable Fady Alame, Member of Parliament representing his Excellency Speaker Nabih Berri, and his Excellency Ghassan Salameh, Minister of Culture representing Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
Ambassador Johnson noted in her remarks, ""The United States shares the vision of a sovereign Lebanon that chooses unity over division, stability over strife, and growth over stagnation. Lebanon can move forward—not in the shadow of the past, but toward the light of a better future because we know that when Lebanon thrives, the region thrives." She added, "The Lebanese Armed Forces stand as the guardian of Lebanon's sovereignty. They embody the spirit of unity, protection, and peace that leaders like President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have rightly called the 'cornerstone of Lebanon's future.'"
Please note her full remarks:
Ambassador Johnson's Independence Day Remarks
"His Excellency Michel Menassa, Minister of Defense, representing President Joseph Aoun;
The Honorable Fady Alame, Member of Parliament, representing His Excellency Speaker Nabih Berri;
His Excellency Ghassan Salameh, Minister of Culture, representing Prime Minister Nawaf Salam;
Ministers, diplomatic corps, partners, colleagues, and friends.
Good evening, and welcome. Thank you all for being here to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.
First, thank you to the U.S. Marine Corps Embassy Security Guard Detachment for the Presentation of the Colors. Your discipline and honor are a reminder of the values we hold dear.
Next, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the incredible U.S. Embassy team. Your hard work, creativity, and months of careful planning have made tonight not just possible—but unforgettable.
I'd also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Dbayeh Marina for welcoming us to this stunning venue. There is no better place to celebrate our Independence Day than at this beautiful waterfront, surrounded by our partners and friends.
And to our generous donors and sponsors—thank you for your support and for making tonight's celebration so special.
As we gather this evening, I want to acknowledge the huge challenges Lebanon has faced these past few years—times of conflict, economic strain, and complex regional dynamics.
Tonight, however, is about looking ahead. Because if Lebanon continues down the path it is on now, it can shine with the light of new beginnings.
A new government has taken shape - and taken action. It formed not just in the aftermath of violent crisis, but in the spirit of progress. With historic cabinet decisions in August and September to disarm all non-state groups in the country, the Lebanese government has a historic opportunity to reclaim Lebanon's sovereignty for the Lebanese people.
Lebanon can seize this moment and build a national community. A community led by a government free from corruption and malign influence, and one that protects and serves all of its people.
The Lebanese government is strengthening airport security to welcome the world back to Lebanon's cities, villages, mountains and shores. The government has passed bank secrecy, bank resolution, and judicial independence laws and held successful municipal elections. In doing so, the Lebanese government is setting the stage to restore investor confidence and help Lebanon unlock its economic power.
Together, these early achievements reflect more than just policy—they reflect momentum. This government was able to achieve more in seven months than was achieved over the past six years.
And just as this momentum builds at home, shifting dynamics in the region that were once unimaginable offer Lebanon something more: a once-in-a-generation opportunity. An opportunity to reestablish its sovereignty, pursue lasting peace with its neighbors, and reach its full economic potential.
None of this would be possible without the commitment and courage of Lebanon's security institutions. The Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces play critical roles across the country where their presence and professionalism help preserve calm and prevent escalation.
The Lebanese Armed Forces stand as the guardian of Lebanon's sovereignty. They embody the spirit of unity, protection, and peace that leaders like President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have rightly called the "cornerstone of Lebanon's future."
The Lebanese Armed Forces ensure that Lebanon's path forward is determined by the Lebanese people – and not by the ambitions of malign external powers.
Ten months after the U.S.-mediated cessation of hostilities, the Lebanese Armed Forces have done admirable work to disarm Hezbollah and other non-state groups in Lebanon. Still, more work is needed to ensure the state's monopoly of weapons across all Lebanese territory.
The United States shares the vision of a Lebanon that chooses unity over division, stability over strife, and growth over stagnation. Lebanon can move forward—not in the shadow of the past, but toward the light of a better future, because we know that when Lebanon thrives, the region thrives.
Tonight's theme is "A Road Trip Across America," but allow me to share with you the road trip I've taken—across Lebanon.
In the spring, I hiked through the majestic Cedars, Lebanon's soul rooted in the mountains.
In the summer, I found joy paddle boarding in the turquoise Mediterranean waters along your golden coast.
In the fall, I wandered through your stunning vineyards and olive groves, tasting the richness of your land and generosity of your people.
And in the winter, I skied and snowshoed on Lebanon's glorious mountain slopes.
Lebanon is not just a place. It's an experience. A treasure. A home.
As my official mission in Lebanon draws to an end, my wish is for the world to see what I have seen, and to fall in love with Lebanon, all year round.
The steps you have taken so far are admirable—and they matter. But the true promise of this moment lies in what comes next: the state must have a monopoly on arms. Reforms must continue. Divisions must give way to shared national purpose. And the Lebanese people must remain at the heart of every decision.
Because if this momentum is sustained, if this path is pursued with purpose and perseverance, then Lebanon will realize the 21st century future its people have long deserved: one of peace, prosperity, and pride. Lebanon has already taken courageous steps forward. Staying the course will ensure Lebanon reaches its full potential.
The United States is proud to travel that road with the Lebanese people. Our partnership is not only about diplomacy and investments -it's about possibility. We believe in Lebanon's future. We want American companies and the world to invest in Lebanon - to uplift its talent, and to experience its culture and unmatched beauty. We want to see jobs created not just in one city, but in every town and village.
We want young Lebanese to find opportunities and to be able to build their futures, here at home.
May tonight serve not only as a celebration of U.S. Independence, but as a shared affirmation of determination for Lebanon's path ahead. As we look to that bright, new future, the United States remains committed to our enduring partnership with Lebanon – grounded in peace, progress, and the promise of opportunity, for both our peoples, and for the generations to come.
Thank you and enjoy your evening."
Ambassador Johnson noted in her remarks, ""The United States shares the vision of a sovereign Lebanon that chooses unity over division, stability over strife, and growth over stagnation. Lebanon can move forward—not in the shadow of the past, but toward the light of a better future because we know that when Lebanon thrives, the region thrives." She added, "The Lebanese Armed Forces stand as the guardian of Lebanon's sovereignty. They embody the spirit of unity, protection, and peace that leaders like President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have rightly called the 'cornerstone of Lebanon's future.'"
Please note her full remarks:
Ambassador Johnson's Independence Day Remarks
"His Excellency Michel Menassa, Minister of Defense, representing President Joseph Aoun;
The Honorable Fady Alame, Member of Parliament, representing His Excellency Speaker Nabih Berri;
His Excellency Ghassan Salameh, Minister of Culture, representing Prime Minister Nawaf Salam;
Ministers, diplomatic corps, partners, colleagues, and friends.
Good evening, and welcome. Thank you all for being here to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.
First, thank you to the U.S. Marine Corps Embassy Security Guard Detachment for the Presentation of the Colors. Your discipline and honor are a reminder of the values we hold dear.
Next, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the incredible U.S. Embassy team. Your hard work, creativity, and months of careful planning have made tonight not just possible—but unforgettable.
I'd also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Dbayeh Marina for welcoming us to this stunning venue. There is no better place to celebrate our Independence Day than at this beautiful waterfront, surrounded by our partners and friends.
And to our generous donors and sponsors—thank you for your support and for making tonight's celebration so special.
As we gather this evening, I want to acknowledge the huge challenges Lebanon has faced these past few years—times of conflict, economic strain, and complex regional dynamics.
Tonight, however, is about looking ahead. Because if Lebanon continues down the path it is on now, it can shine with the light of new beginnings.
A new government has taken shape - and taken action. It formed not just in the aftermath of violent crisis, but in the spirit of progress. With historic cabinet decisions in August and September to disarm all non-state groups in the country, the Lebanese government has a historic opportunity to reclaim Lebanon's sovereignty for the Lebanese people.
Lebanon can seize this moment and build a national community. A community led by a government free from corruption and malign influence, and one that protects and serves all of its people.
The Lebanese government is strengthening airport security to welcome the world back to Lebanon's cities, villages, mountains and shores. The government has passed bank secrecy, bank resolution, and judicial independence laws and held successful municipal elections. In doing so, the Lebanese government is setting the stage to restore investor confidence and help Lebanon unlock its economic power.
Together, these early achievements reflect more than just policy—they reflect momentum. This government was able to achieve more in seven months than was achieved over the past six years.
And just as this momentum builds at home, shifting dynamics in the region that were once unimaginable offer Lebanon something more: a once-in-a-generation opportunity. An opportunity to reestablish its sovereignty, pursue lasting peace with its neighbors, and reach its full economic potential.
None of this would be possible without the commitment and courage of Lebanon's security institutions. The Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces play critical roles across the country where their presence and professionalism help preserve calm and prevent escalation.
The Lebanese Armed Forces stand as the guardian of Lebanon's sovereignty. They embody the spirit of unity, protection, and peace that leaders like President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have rightly called the "cornerstone of Lebanon's future."
The Lebanese Armed Forces ensure that Lebanon's path forward is determined by the Lebanese people – and not by the ambitions of malign external powers.
Ten months after the U.S.-mediated cessation of hostilities, the Lebanese Armed Forces have done admirable work to disarm Hezbollah and other non-state groups in Lebanon. Still, more work is needed to ensure the state's monopoly of weapons across all Lebanese territory.
The United States shares the vision of a Lebanon that chooses unity over division, stability over strife, and growth over stagnation. Lebanon can move forward—not in the shadow of the past, but toward the light of a better future, because we know that when Lebanon thrives, the region thrives.
Tonight's theme is "A Road Trip Across America," but allow me to share with you the road trip I've taken—across Lebanon.
In the spring, I hiked through the majestic Cedars, Lebanon's soul rooted in the mountains.
In the summer, I found joy paddle boarding in the turquoise Mediterranean waters along your golden coast.
In the fall, I wandered through your stunning vineyards and olive groves, tasting the richness of your land and generosity of your people.
And in the winter, I skied and snowshoed on Lebanon's glorious mountain slopes.
Lebanon is not just a place. It's an experience. A treasure. A home.
As my official mission in Lebanon draws to an end, my wish is for the world to see what I have seen, and to fall in love with Lebanon, all year round.
The steps you have taken so far are admirable—and they matter. But the true promise of this moment lies in what comes next: the state must have a monopoly on arms. Reforms must continue. Divisions must give way to shared national purpose. And the Lebanese people must remain at the heart of every decision.
Because if this momentum is sustained, if this path is pursued with purpose and perseverance, then Lebanon will realize the 21st century future its people have long deserved: one of peace, prosperity, and pride. Lebanon has already taken courageous steps forward. Staying the course will ensure Lebanon reaches its full potential.
The United States is proud to travel that road with the Lebanese people. Our partnership is not only about diplomacy and investments -it's about possibility. We believe in Lebanon's future. We want American companies and the world to invest in Lebanon - to uplift its talent, and to experience its culture and unmatched beauty. We want to see jobs created not just in one city, but in every town and village.
We want young Lebanese to find opportunities and to be able to build their futures, here at home.
May tonight serve not only as a celebration of U.S. Independence, but as a shared affirmation of determination for Lebanon's path ahead. As we look to that bright, new future, the United States remains committed to our enduring partnership with Lebanon – grounded in peace, progress, and the promise of opportunity, for both our peoples, and for the generations to come.
Thank you and enjoy your evening."
