Haling democratic conduct of Lebanese elections, Annan pledges UN aid for next rounds

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today hailed the democratic conduct of the first phase of Lebanon's parliamentary elections and pledged the world body's continued support for next rounds.

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today hailed the democratic conduct of the first phase of Lebanon's parliamentary elections and pledged the world body's continued support for the next rounds.

In a statement released by his spokesman, the Secretary-General commended the Government of Lebanon “for its efforts to ensure that the elections take place on schedule and in a free and credible manner.”

Stressing that the elections constitute a “major opportunity for the Lebanese people to shape their own future, to strengthen their political institutions and to restore their full sovereignty,” he voiced hope that the remaining rounds would take place in the same peaceful atmosphere.

The UN electoral team now in Lebanon “stands ready to extend its further support and expertise, as and if required,” the statement said.