The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell, indicated, during the graduation ceremony of 73 officers in the bronze and silver leadership course in line with the principles of the guide, at the barrack of the martyred engineer, Major Wissam Eid in Aramoun, that “I am pleased to visit the Institute of Internal Security Forces today, to participate in this important event On improving the management of security and order maintenance operations in the Internal Security Forces.
He pointed out, “We are celebrating a new achievement added to this long-term partnership, as Britain has provided support to the Internal Security Forces since 2008, i.e. 15 years of cooperation in order to enhance professionalism, responsiveness and accountability in the institution,” explaining that “we have worked over the past years, on Developing a common vision towards transforming from a police force into a police service, in order to ensure the security and trust of society in Lebanon.
The ambassador stressed that “Lebanon is currently in its fourth year of unprecedented political and economic crises, whose repercussions are affecting public safety and security in the country. Since the beginning of the economic collapse, demonstrations have increased and crime rates have increased dramatically, and this has been accompanied by increased pressure on the Internal Security Forces.” Which has become more responsive to issues of maintaining security and order and ensuring public safety.
-He pointed out, “With Britain’s support, we are pleased to see the Internal Security Forces able to provide a coordinated, effective and human rights response in the face of the increasing challenges at the level of maintaining security and order, benefiting from the analysis and planning capabilities in the command and control centers,” considering that “the protection of human rights And ensuring accountability are two main pillars that contribute to strengthening the role of the Internal Security Forces, their role, and society’s trust in them.
In addition, the Director General of the Internal Security Forces, Major General Imad Othman, stated, “I am taking advantage of this occasion to address all the officers and personnel in the Internal Security Forces, and to the graduates today, and say: Lebanon needs you more than ever before, you are its true heroes, and people are dependent.” You are suffering a lot in light of the difficult economic conditions and financial hardship, because of your limited salaries and the increase in your tasks, but you have proven that you are up to the level of responsibility and readiness, and worthy of this trust, and I find in you every day the desire to develop yourselves and develop your organization. I pledge to you to continue this development, and we will not stop securing your rights, in coordination with officials in the state, and with friendly countries, especially Britain.
