Brussels, 24/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 23 October, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton called on Lebanese leaders to avoid a political vacuum in the country, according to the national Lebanese agency. In a press release, Ashton encouraged “all the political leaders to work towards constructive solutions to the main challenges” that face Lebanon. Stressing the EU's support for the “unity” of the country and her concern regarding its stability, she welcomed “the efforts undertaken to maintain stability through national dialogue”. Ashton recalled that in times of trouble “the importance of robust state institutions” which continue to ensure security and provide services “cannot be underestimated”. “Long-term stability requires implementation of a wide range of political, economic and social reforms, and a commitment to greater social justice”, Ashton added. She welcomed Lebanon's support to Syrian refugees.
On Monday 22 October, the ambassadors of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council called for government action to be maintained. The country is in full political crisis after the bomb attack which took the life of General Wissam al-Hassan on 19 October, and when the prime minister expressed his desire to leave his post before renouncing it. According to a high level official at the presidential palace, quoted by AFP on 24 October, the president “has begun his consultations with the main figures of the country to discuss the possibility of forming a new government” (our translation). (CG/transl.fl)