US congratulates Lebanese for electing Joseph Aoun as President

The United States has congratulated the people of Lebanon on the election of President Joseph Aoun.

Secretary of State, Antony Blinken who in a statement disclosed this stated that this is a moment of historic opportunity as Lebanon works to implement commitments under the cessation of hostilities and establish durable peace and stability for the Lebanese people.
He added, It is also an opportunity to advance critical reforms, restore government functions, strengthen institutions to rebuild a strong, stable and prosperous Lebanon”.

Report has it that the voting session took place on Thursday after more than two years of presidential vacancy. It began on time after the required quorum was met, with all 128 members of Parliament in attendance.
Aoun’s election, was reportedly backed by the United States, highlights the weakened influence of the Iran-supported Hezbollah group following its destructive conflict with Israel.

Aoun was born on January 10, 1964 in the Beirut suburb of Sin el-Fil in the Metn District, the child of Hoda Ibrahim Makhlouta and Khalil Aoun.
Aoun completed secondary school at the Collège des Frères Mont La Salle. His family is originally from the town of Al-Aaishiyah, Southern Lebanon.

He enrolled at the Lebanese American University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in political science and international affairs, which he earned in 2007. Also holds a bachelor’s degree in military science from the Lebanese Army Military Academy.