Annan hails political transition in Lebanon, pledges UN support

Welcoming the vote of confidence that has formally established Lebanon's new Government, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today pledged the world body's full support as the country works to consolidate stability.

In a statement released by a UN spokesman, Mr. Annan said he particularly looks forward to progress towards meeting all the requirements of Security Council Resolution 1559, which calls for the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon, disbanding all militias and extending Government control over the whole country. He pledged to “continue to work closely with the parties” on that issue.

Overall, the UN will support the Government's efforts to rise to the challenges ahead “in the best interest of the people of Lebanon,” the statement said.

In addition to hailing Prime Minister Fuad Siniora's administration, the spokesman also welcomed the government policy statement outlining an agenda of essential political and economic reforms for Lebanon while noting that this “would require the cooperation and commitment of all relevant parties.”