BEIRUT -- Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) General David Petraeus on Tuesday paid a one-day visit to Lebanon and discussed with officials the support for the Lebanese army to enable it to carry out its duties.

A statement issued by the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon said Petraeus held meetings with Prime Minister Fouad Siniora and with the Army Commander, General Jean Qahwaji.

It pointed out that Petraeus also reviewed with the Lebanese officials the continuing support of the United States to the Lebanese Army to enable it maintain peace, stability and protect the Lebanese people.

Lebanon's state-run news agency says that the commander of US Central Command, Gen. David Petraeus, has discussed American military aid to Lebanese troops with the army commander.

The National News Agency says the meeting was held Tuesday at the office of Gen. Jean Kahwaji at the Defense Ministry east of Beirut. Earlier in the day, Petraeus was received by Prime Minister Fuad Saniora.

The American commander, whose visit was unannounced, left Lebanon a few hours after his arrival.

The United States has sharply increased its military aid to Lebanon since the 2006 war between the militant Hezbollah group and Israel in a show of support for Saniora's government. The US assistance includes equipment and training. -Agencies