Inauguration of Lebanese President Michel Sleiman (Taken Question)

Question: Were there any U.S. officials present at the inauguration of Lebanese president Michel Sleiman? If so, who? What contacts have U.S. officials had with President Sleiman since his inauguration?

Answer: The United States was represented by Chargé d’Affaires Michele Sison and a Congressional delegation that included U.S. Representatives Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., Darrell Issa, R-Calif., Ray Lahood, R-Ill., Charlie Melancon, D-La., John Linder, R-Ga., and Jack Kingston, R-Ga. The delegation delivered a letter of congratulations from Secretary Rice. President Bush also contacted President Sleiman by phone.