Amos Hochstein, the Senior Advisor to the U.S. Administration for Global Energy Security, began his tour on Wednesday with a meeting with the Speaker of the House Nabih Berri at the second presidential location in Ain al-Tineh, attended by U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea and his accompanying delegation. The meeting lasted for an hour, after which Hochstein left stating, "The meeting with President Berri was excellent and constructive."
For his part, President Berri reiterated his gratitude for Hochstein's efforts, which have led to the commencement of drilling in Block 9. He affirmed that "the efforts of the parliamentary council will remain focused on electing a new president for the republic and completing the necessary legislation in the oil sector, primarily the sovereign fund and the required legislation to finalize the agreement with the International Monetary Fund." Berri also emphasized to Hochstein "the necessity of halting Israeli violations of UN resolution 1701" and highlighted the deep relationship with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) since 1978, stating that Lebanon is very keen on maintaining stability as well as its sovereignty over all Lebanese territories."
Hochstein then met with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati at the Grand Serail, who later hosted Hochstein for lunch. Present at the meeting were Ambassador Dorothy Shea, the diplomatic advisor to the Prime Minister, Ambassador Boutrus Asaker, and the government coordinator with UNIFIL, Brigadier General Munir Shihada.
Later, the American envoy is expected to meet with Army Commander General Joseph Aoun and Minister of Energy Walid Fayad. Following his arrival in Beirut this morning, Hochstein wrote on his official social media account on X (formerly Twitter): "Great to be back in Beirut. Quick coffee & manoushe @ Falamanki with the beautiful iconic view overlooking Raouche with the talented US Ambassador Dorothy Shea."
