United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Ms. Joanna Wronecka and Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix yesterday briefed the Security Council on the latest report of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 and the situation in Lebanon.
The Special Coordinator commended Lebanon and Israel for putting an end to their maritime boundary dispute and establishing a permanent maritime boundary on 27 October. “This is a historic achievement that could promote security and stability in the region and generate economic benefits for both countries,” the Special Coordinator said.
While welcoming this progress at the regional level, the Special Coordinator said more needed to be done internally in Lebanon to address a multitude of accumulating political and socio-economic crises. She noted in particular the urgency of prioritizing the election of a new President to end the vacuum in Lebanon and the formation of a fully functional government.
“Amid a dire socio-economic situation, Lebanese people are expecting nothing less from their leaders than acting with only national interest and the public good at heart,” the Special Coordinator said. “I reiterate my calls on all Lebanese political leaders to apply a constructive approach and build bridges so as to overcome difficulties and disagreements,” she added.
The Special Coordinator emphasized the need for fully functional state institutions that are empowered and able to move forward with the implementation of urgent reforms, including those required to finalize an agreement with the IMF. “Doing so is necessary to ensure a more stable and prosperous future for the Lebanese people, who are sadly the most affected by the prolonged and protracted socio-economic crisis,” the Special Coordinator said.
In line with calls for more empowered and effective state institutions in Lebanon, the Special Coordinator encouraged the adoption of legislation that strengthens the independence of the judiciary. She echoed the appeal of the UN Secretary-General to Lebanese authorities to overcome the obstacles impeding the conclusion of an impartial, thorough and transparent investigation into the devastating 2020 Beirut Port explosion.
The Special Coordinator acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Lebanese Armed Forces and other state security institutions to preserve stability and security in Lebanon under challenging conditions, stressing that they deserve continued and enhanced international support.
Noting the commitment of both Lebanon and Israel to Resolution 1701, the Special Coordinator recalled that both countries needed to do more to ensure to full implementation of the resolution for the sake of long-term peace, security and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the Special Coordinator reiterated the commitment of the United Nations to continue standing by Lebanon and its people.
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