The UN chief answers questions from reporters after meeting with Nawaf Salam (L), who was recently appointed as Lebanon’s prime minister. UN chief: Window of opportunity for new era has opened in Lebanon Peace and security
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wrapped up a visit to Lebanon on Saturday. Speaking at a news conference in Beirut, he called his trip “meaningful and productive.” The UN chief stressed that “Lebanon is on the threshold of a more hopeful future.”
“A window of opportunity has opened for a new era of institutional stability, a state that can protect its citizens, and a system that will unlock the enormous potential of the Lebanese people,” Guterres said.
During his visit, the Secretary-General met with President Joseph Aoun, Acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati, newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and other senior officials. He stressed that with the formation of a government, Lebanon will be able to address its problems and extend state authority throughout the country.
At the same time, Guterres noted that great challenges lie ahead. During his visit to the south of the country, he witnessed first-hand the dramatic consequences of the conflict and destruction.
“Hundreds of thousands of displaced people have returned to southern Lebanon, southern Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and elsewhere. Many found their homes and neighborhoods in ruins,” he said.
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The Secretary-General stressed that the challenges associated with recovery are enormous but achievable. “Working hand in hand with the Lebanese authorities and partners, the UN will step up its support for recovery and reconstruction across Lebanon,” Guterres said.
He noted that many Israelis have also been affected by the conflict and expressed hope that they will all be able to return to normal lives. “I very much hope that all people – on both sides – will soon be able to return to their neighbourhoods and resume their daily lives,” the Secretary-General said.
Guterres called the current truce “fragile,” but stressed that the ceasefire is holding. He called on both sides and all those with influence over them to ensure that their commitments under the agreement to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah are met.
The Secretary-General reiterated his gratitude to UN peacekeepers who continue to carry out their important mission in difficult circumstances and stressed the importance of international support to achieve sustainable peace in the region.
“The UN, including the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), is committed to supporting the parties in implementing their commitments under resolution 1701 and ensuring that the ceasefire holds,” Guterres said.