Thursday, April 24, 2014

Statement of UN Special Coordinator Derek Plumbly after meeting Prime Minister Tamam Salam

Beirut, Lebanon
Thursday, 24 April 2014
I had a good meeting with Prime Minister Tammam Salam. I expressed appreciation for the measures that the government has been taking to address the security challenges and the calm which has resulted in Tripoli and elsewhere and to stress the international community's support for Lebanon's security and the steps this government is taking.

Specifically, on the army, we had a meeting in Rome two weeks ago which was a preparatory one designed to reinforce international efforts to assist the Lebanese army.

 We also discussed the situation of the Syrian refugees. I emphasized our continued support for the government as it tries to address the very immediate challenges, our understanding of the size of the challenge facing Lebanon and the readiness of the United Nations to stand side by side with Lebanon including, of course, in providing assistance to host communities.

 Finally, I should take the opportunity in light of yesterday's events to stress the priority that we attach to the continuity of State institutions and in that sense to welcome the beginning of the presidential election process yesterday and to underline our concern that it be completed successfully within the timeframe set by law.