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U.S. Ambassador-Designate for Unconditional Presidential Election

The newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Lebanon Michele Sison has reiterated the Bush administration's rejection of foreign interference in Lebanon's internal affairs and the unconditional election of a new president.
"Outside forces must stop obstructing Lebanon's democratic process. The Parliament should meet and elect a president now, without conditions," she said Wednesday after meeting Premier Fouad Saniora at the Grand Serail.

"It is regrettable that a vacuum continues, and that presidential elections have been postponed twelve times. An agreement on a consensus president was reached long ago," said Sison, who will replace outgoing ambassador Jeffrey Feltman.

She also emphasized "U.S. commitment to a sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon."

Earlier Wednesday, Sison presented her accreditation letter to resigned Foreign Minister Fawzi Salloukh. She also visited Speaker Nabih Berri.

Sison will serve as charge d'affaires until her credentials are accepted by the country's next president.

"I look forward to offering the congratulations of the U.S. government soon to a new Lebanese president– one who is elected freely and according to Lebanon's constitution," Sison said.

About the tribunal that would try suspects in ex-Premier Rafik Hariri's assassination and related crimes, Sison said: "We are encouraged that the process of establishing the Special Tribunal for Lebanon is moving forward. We urge others to join those governments who are providing donations to support" the international court.

She also stressed that the U.S. is committed to end "terrorist attacks that seek to undermine Lebanon's state institutions and democracy."

Beirut, 07 Feb 08, 09:16


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