President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun received a message from US President Donald Trump, in which he expressed his happiness at receiving President Aoun at the White House on July 21st, and his admiration for his leadership of Lebanon during this phase. The message read: "It was an honor to welcome you to the White House for a truly historic visit, the first by a Lebanese head of state in nearly two decades. At a time when the Middle East is witnessing conflict, I admire your decisive leadership on behalf of Lebanon and its people." Trump thanked President Aoun for awarding him the National Order of the Cedar with the rank of Grand Cordon, saying: "This initiative constitutes an exceptional honor and embodies the proud Lebanese spirit, and I will cherish this gesture as a symbol of our shared commitment to peace, security, and prosperity around the world." President Trump affirmed that US First Lady Melania Trump shares with him his best wishes to him, First Lady Nemat Aoun, and his family.