UN Special Coordinator visits the Islamic Republic of Iran
Today the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Mrs. Sigrid Kaag, met in Tehran with Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif, Advisor on International Affairs to the Supreme Leader H.E. Mr. Ali Akbar Velayati, and Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs H.E. Mr. Hussein Amir-Abdollahian. The visit to Tehran takes place in the context of the Special Coordinator's regular regional outreach.
The meetings focused on the present situation in Lebanon, including issues related to peace and security, stability and stabilization. Discussions also covered Security Council resolution 1701. They discussed developments in region, and in particular the impact of the Syria crisis on Lebanon. The Special Coordinator appreciated the opportunity to exchange views on the important role played by the Lebanese Government and other State institutions in trying to meet the many challenges facing the country at this time.
In this regard, the Special Coordinator reiterated the concern of the Security Council and the International Support Group for Lebanon, that the vacuum in the Presidency of the Republic seriously undermines Lebanon’s ability to address its socio-economic and security challenges. “We discussed the importance of the Presidency for Lebanon, and reiterated our clear expectation that Lebanon’s leaders act in the national interest to elect a President without further delay,” she said.