NNA - Prime Minister, Dr. Nawaf Salam, on Thursday received at the Grand Serail, Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary-General for Peace, Security and Defense at the European External Action Service (EEAS), accompanied by EU Ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele and a delegation from the Union.

During the meeting, the European Union's support for the Lebanese Army and the importance of its continuation were discussed, in addition to the need to support the Internal Security Forces.

The discussion also touched on the Lebanese government's steps to extend state authority, as well as the government's security and military priorities, which the European Union could contribute to supporting.

The delegation underlined the importance that the government continues with the reform path and reach an agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

Separately, Premier Salam received the head of the Alawite Islamic Council, Sheikh Ali Qaddour, accompanied by the head of the Council's Religious Affairs Department, Sheikh Ahmed Assi.

Speaking on emerging, Sheikh Qaddour hailed the PM's tremendous efforts in establishing the state of law and institutions.