UN envoy meets with Egyptian President Mubarak on Lebanon

The United Nations envoy seeking an end to foreign interference in Lebanon had a prolonged, "useful and productive" meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Cairo today, reviewing both Lebanese issues and the broader political context.

After the meeting, Terje Roed-Larsen, Secretary-General Kofi Annan's Special Envoy for implementing Security Council resolution 1559, spoke with Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora to exchange views on the latest developments in the country, which has recently been shaken by a series of assassinations and other attacks.

Resolution 1559 calls for withdrawing all foreign forces from Lebanon, disbanding all militias, extending Government control over the whole country and holding free elections.

Mr. Annan appointed Mr. Roed-Larsen at the beginning of the year. Since then Syria has withdrawn its troops from its smaller neighbour, and Lebanese elections were held in June.