Obama announces new aid for Lebanese army

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- President Obama, in a bilateral meeting at the United Nations, said the United States will give $8.7 million in new support for the Lebanese army.

Obama said the United States "strongly supports the role of the Lebanese armed forces in maintaining Lebanon's stability, and today we're announcing an additional $8.7 million that would provide needed equipment in support of the Lebanese armed forces in internal stability and border security missions."

Speaking through an interpreter, Lebanese President Michel Sleiman said the United States has provided "continuous support" for his country.

Obama said Lebanon has full U.S. support in the fight to uphold the country's independence, adding all parties in Lebanon should refrain from engaging in the Syrian conflict.

"We are pleased that there may be progress in getting rid of Syria's chemical weapons," Obama said, which would be good for Lebanon.

The U.S. president also said Lebanon has been generous in helping Syrian refugees.