Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the resignation of Prime Minister Mikati of Lebanon

New York, 22 March 2013 - The Secretary-General has taken note of the announcement today of the resignation of Prime Minister Mikati of Lebanon. At this challenging time for the region, the Secretary-General calls on all the parties in Lebanon to remain united behind the leadership of President Sleiman. He also calls on them to work together with the institutions of the State to maintain calm and stability, to respect Lebanon's policy of disassociation consistent with their commitment in the Baabda Declaration, and to support the role of the Lebanese Armed Forces in sustaining national unity, sovereignty and security. The Secretary-General urges all concerned to engage positively with the President to agree the way forward in accordance with Lebanon's constitutional requirements and with full respect for the democratic process.