President of the Republic, General Michel Aoun, met UNIFIL Commander, General Stefano Del Col, today at the Presidential Palace.
The President informed Del Col that “Lebanon relies a lot on the existing cooperation between the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL forces to maintain stability on southern borders”. President Aoun also noted the efforts exerted by UNIFIL forces to help contain tension whenever any security development occurs as a result of continuous Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
The President also renewed Lebanese commitment to implementing Resolution 1701 in all aspects, and called for pressure on Israel to abide by the implementation of this resolution. Moreover, the President welcomed UNIFIL mandate extension for an additional year without any modification in tasks or equipment, in Resolution No.2591, praising what was added to the resolution from providing international support to the Lebanese Army through additional and urgent assistance, including logistic needs and daily maintenance work.
In addition, President Aoun pointed to the negative effects of the economic and social crisis on the work of security forces, members and families, thanking the UN Security Council’s request to help the Lebanese Army with fuel, food and medicine in addition to logistical support for a six-month period. The President considered that the Lebanese Army and security forces need the help of the international community.
Then, the President affirmed his rejection of any aggression against the international forces, and called for solving any problems which might occur with their units and the people, in coordination with the Lebanese Army.
For his side, General Del Col had discussed the general situation on southern borders, with President Aoun, in addition to the role of UNIFIL in dealing with the events which occur from time to time. Del Col pointed to the unanimity of the decision to extend UNIFIL mandate according to Lebanon’s request, with any task or number modification.