Brussels, 17/12/2013 (Agence Europe) - Condemning the repeated violence and security incidents, EU foreign affairs ministers reiterated the EU's commitment, on 16 December, to support Lebanon's institutions and security forces, and they reiterated the EU's “readiness to continue this assistance and explore the possibilities for increased support to the Lebanese Armed Forces”. The ministers also hailed the efforts of the Lebanese security forces, “including the Lebanese Armed Forces”, to protect Lebanon's borders and ensure security for all people living on Lebanese territory, with due respect for the rule of law and human rights.
In their conclusions, the ministers call on “all parties, including Hezbollah, to act responsibly, fully abide by Lebanon's dissociation policy from the conflict in Syria and support the efforts of President Sleiman to implement the provisions of the Baabda Declaration”. The EU also underlines the importance of continuing the national dialogue among all political forces, and calls on Lebanon to form a new government urgently which is capable of addressing the extraordinary humanitarian, economic and security challenges the country is facing.
In addition, the EU expresses its concern at the “unprecedented” effect of the Syrian crisis on the stability of Lebanon and on the natural and economic resources, educational systems, health care and labour markets. “The EU reaffirms its commitment to the unity, stability, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon”, the ministers also state. (CG/transl.fl)