Begin, Haig optimistic after talks on Lebanon

June 23, 1982

Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Secretary of State Alexander M. Haig Jr. expressed optimism that the authority of the Lebanese government would soon be restored.

Mr. Begin said both the US and Israel believed a peaceful solution was possible in Lebanon based on the withdrawal of all foreign forces. Their meeting Tuesday followed talks Monday between the Israeli prime minister and President Reagan, in which both men agreed foreign troops should be withdrawn from Lebanon as part of a long-term solution. Mr. Haig said his talk with Mr. Begin came out productive and positive.