Secretary-General, Expressing Regret over Lebanon Parliament’s Inability to Meet

Election Deadline, Urges Avoidance of Further Delay

 

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

The Secretary-General regrets that the Lebanese Parliament was unable to elect a new President within the timeframe set by the Constitution.  He calls on the country’s leaders to engage intensively to ensure the election of a new President without delay.

The Secretary-General calls on Lebanese leaders to ensure the continued effective functioning of the institutions of the State, to guarantee that the Government is able to address the challenges facing the country and to meet Lebanon’s international obligations.  The United Nations remains committed to continued partnership with the Government of Lebanon as it works towards achieving these goals.

The Secretary-General pays tribute to the leadership demonstrated by outgoing President Michel Sleiman over the past six years and lauds his commitment to the unity and stability of Lebanon, including through the International Support Group for Lebanon and the implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions.

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For information media • not an official record