The UN Security Council has welcomed the return of Prime Minister Saad Hariri to Lebanon and his decision to continue his term, and highlighted the need to protect the country from the crisis destabilizing the Middle East.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the 15-member Council called on all regional States and organizations “to work for the political, social, economic and financial stability and security of Lebanon.”
The Security Council called upon all Lebanese parties “to implement a tangible policy of disassociation from any external conflicts, as an important priority.”
The Council members also reaffirmed their support for Lebanese authorities’ ongoing efforts to restore normal functioning of institutions and to prepare for the holding of legislative elections by May 2018.
They urged the Government to speed up its reform programs to ensure political and economic stability built on a functional, transparent and democratic State.
Further in the statement, the Council commended the efforts of the people and authorities in Lebanon to host Syrian refugees and encouraged the international community to continue and increase its support to the country, including for Lebanese host communities and refugees.
The Security Council also urged the International Support Group for Lebanon (ISG) to continue its work, in coordination with the office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL), to seek opportunities to help address the challenges to Lebanon’s security and stability.
