Ahead of her departure to New York, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka is meeting with several Lebanese officials to discuss the importance of shielding Lebanon from the repercussions of the conflict in Gaza and the effective implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.
To that end, Wronecka discussed with Lebanese Forces Leader Samir Geagea on Wednesday the latest local and regional developments in Meerab. She then met with Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
“I wanted to meet with PM Mikati, amid the extraordinary Arab summit in Riyadh, for an exchange of views specially ahead of the security council meeting that will be held November 22, to discuss the Resolution 1701 and the latest developments in Lebanon,” Mrs Wronceka said.
“What is happening in southern Lebanon does not serve anyone, especially Lebanon and its people,” Geagea said for his part during his meeting with Mrs Wronceka . He emphasized the importance of ensuring stability along the border by bolstering and duly implementing Resolution 1701, and stressed the need for the Lebanese army to undertake this task with the support of international peacekeeping forces.
“Only then would we preserve the security and safety of the Lebanese people and protect their interests against the fires raging in the South,” he said.
Geagea emphasized the army’s role in securing stability, urging “all parties not to compromise the cohesion of the military institution or involve it in uncertain and risky adventures. He advised against subjecting the army to any changes during this delicate stage.” He pointed out that the Strong Republic Bloc took a step in this direction, expressing hope that all forces believing in Lebanon’s interest, stability and the safety of its people would consolidate this step and protect the Lebanese army.
According to Geagea, “it is unacceptable to leave the Palestinians without a state to look after and manage their affairs and interests.” He reiterated the need to find a solution to the Palestinian issue based on the two-state solution outlined in the Beirut Declaration of 2002 to ensure stability in the Middle East.
