Secretary-General disappointed by postponement of lebanon’s presidential election

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General has taken note of the fifth postponement of the Lebanese presidential election beyond the term of the current incumbent.  He regrets this development and urges all parties to maintain calm, as well as to further intensify efforts to reach a compromise as soon as possible.

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the fragility of the situation in Lebanon and is following events very carefully.  Both he and his Special Coordinator for Lebanon are in close touch with key players in Lebanon, in the region and beyond.  The Secretary-General urges all parties to live up to their responsibilities and to act within the constitutional framework, as well as in a peaceful and democratic manner.

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For information media • not an official record