Statement Delivered by Security Council President, Matthew Rycroft (United Kingdom) at the press stakeout on behalf of the Security Council following Security Council session on Lebanon and implementation of resolution 1701

Friday, 17 March 2017

The members of the Security Council welcomed the political and institutional progress that Lebanon has achieved since the election of a President and nomination of a Prime Minister. The resumption of regular cabinet meetings and parliamentary legislative sessions are encouraging signs that Lebanon's institutions of State are again functioning effectively. The members of the Security Council urged all Lebanese political forces to continue national dialogue in order to solve all problems.

In the spirit of sustaining this institutional progress, the members of the Security Council stressed that the timely conduct of peaceful and transparent parliamentary elections in accordance with the Constitution, and reflecting the country's democratic traditions, will be critical for Lebanon's stability and resilience to withstand regional challenges. The members of the Security Council underlined that the political progress to date also represents an opportunity to continue strengthening and extending the authority of the Lebanese State.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their strong support for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon. They expressed support for Resolutions 1701, 1680 and 1559. They recalled that it is essential to continue to demonstrate genuine commitment and adherence to Resolution 1701 and other relevant resolutions.

Finally the members of Security Council urged all parties to make every effort to ensure that the cessation of hostilities is sustained, exercise maximum calm and restraint and refrain from any action or rhetoric that could jeopardize the cessation of hostilities or destabilize the region.

The members of the Security Council stressed the crucial role of the Lebanese Armed Forces and encouraged to international community to continue their support to the LAF's capabilities, stretched by multiple challenges. In this context the members of the Security Council welcomed the appointment of General Joseph Aoun.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their strong support to the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon and encouraged the International Support Group for Lebanon to remain mobilized in support of Lebanon's political and socio-economic stability.

Live webcast of the statement is available at the below link:

http://bit.ly/2nOFHGb