I had a good meeting with Speaker Berri. We discussed developments in Lebanon and issues related to the implementation of resolution 1701. On the first subject, we discussed obviously the presidential election.
I expressed appreciation for the Speaker’s efforts, and recalled the statement agreed at the meeting of the International Support Group for Lebanon which President Hollande hosted under the auspices of the Secretary-General in Paris in March, which “emphasized the crucial importance for confidence and stability in Lebanon of the presidential and parliamentary elections being conducted on time on the basis of Lebanon’s constitutional procedures and democratic practice”.
The presidential election process is now entering a crucial phase, with less than two weeks remaining to 25 May. Having discussed the matter with members of the International Support Group, which includes the five permanent members of the Security Council, I would like to make two or three points on behalf of the group collectively.
The first is to emphasize that the process is an entirely Lebanese one, which should remain free of foreign interference. We are aware of no external impediment to its successful conclusion on time, quite the reverse.
The second is to stress nonetheless that Lebanon’s friends in the international community have a keen interest in the successful completion of the process, on time and in accordance with constitutional practice. The formation of the present government and the security measures it has taken have contributed significantly to confidence and stability. It is vital that this be sustained. A vacancy in the presidency should be avoided.
We earnestly hope that members of parliament will engage fully in the coming days to secure the election of a president by the date set in law. We stress again the importance of this for Lebanon if it is to continue effectively to address the multiple challenges it faces, and for Lebanon’s international partners as they seek to support and assist it.
That concludes our agreed statement.
With regards to resolution 1701, the Speaker and I agreed on the importance of the calm along the Blue Line and of safeguarding it and of course UNIFIL is exerting all efforts to achieve that.
Thank you
QUESTION: What about the latest Israeli violation?
SPECIAL COORDINATOR DEREK PLUMBLY: UNIFIL is looking into the matter.