BEIRUT: Head of the Lebanese Forces Samir Geagea congratulated Saturday newly appointed U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, voicing confidence in Washington’s commitment to a sovereign Lebanon.

“Geagea sent a congratulatory cable to the newly appointed Secretary of State John Kerry, voicing his party's trust in Kerry's ability to lead the department and the U.S. in general in its relations with the world,” a statement from the LF said.

In the letter, Geagea praised Kerry's dedication in public service and foreign relations, saying: "In light of the changes sweeping the Middle East, we express our confidence in your commitment to a sovereign, democratic Lebanon given that building an independent and prosperous Lebanon embodies the Lebanese Forces' goals and achieves the interest of the United States of America.”

“The Lebanese Forces, a main component of the March 14 coalition, affirms its commitment to a sovereign, democratic Lebanon, free from all foreign forces or militias on its soil,” the statement added, reiterating the party’s commitment to having ties with Kerry and America, “which we share many values with.”

Kerry, the former head of the Senate foreign relations committee and a 2004 Democratic presidential candidate, was appointed by President Barack Obama last month to replace former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton.