Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr has expressed his support for Lebanon and its independence, stressing his readiness to provide the required support the country needs. He is looking to hold an international conference and discuss the plight of Syrian refugees. The Australian diplomat praised the role of Lebanese President Michael Sleiman in protecting the stability of his country by not allowing the conflict of neighbouring countries interfere with internal matters. He added that Australia was ready to provide the relevant support Lebanon required, signalling to the current Syrian conflict and influx of refugees into Lebanon. Carr's statement came following his meeting with Sleiman, where the two discussed bilateral relations, with a stress on the need to push forward cooperation between the two countries. The Australian official also met with former prime minister Nagib Mikati.