U.N. Chief at Rome II: Lebanon a Fundamental Pillar of Stability in Region

Lebanon is “a fundamental pillar of stability in the region” and “this status is the product of tremendous hard work on the part of leaders and citizens alike,” U.N. chief Antonio Guterres told the Rome II Conference on Thursday.

“At a time of upheaval across the region, Lebanon cannot afford to be drawn into conflict with its neighbors. Preserving the stability and unity of Lebanon is essential for Lebanon, the region and the world,” Guterres stressed.

Hailing the “outstanding hospitality the Lebanese people extended to Syrians fleeing violence and destruction,” the U.N. secretary-general noted that Lebanon has faced “an enormous influx of refugees, bringing the total in the country to almost one third of the country’s population.”

“As one can imagine, this has an enormous impact on the country’s economy and society, not to mention the dramatic security challenges owing to the Syrian crisis next door. Yet Lebanon has displayed admirable solidarity -- in contrast to others whose doors have tend to be closed to those in need,” Guterres said.

He added that it is now “absolutely essential” for the international community to “show the same solidarity, a strong solidarity with Lebanon.”

Lauding “the collective efforts by the leadership of Lebanon” to ensure “the continued functioning of Lebanon’s state institutions,” Guterres said the May 6 parliamentary elections will be “a testament to Lebanon’s resilience and commitment to democracy.”

“To maintain that stability, and to ensure further progress, Lebanon must take tangible steps forward and the international community must continue to be unified in support... The strengthening of Lebanon’s institutions and the extension of state authority throughout its territory are of crucial importance,” the U.N. chief added.

As for the the thorny issue of devising a national defense strategy, Guterres said the Lebanese efforts seem to be “moving forward,” referring to announcements by President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri that defense strategy talks will be held after the elections.

The U.N. chief added: “I welcome the strengthened deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces south of the Litani River.”

“I also welcome plans to accelerate further deployment through the establishment of a model regiment in UNIFIL’s area of operations to advance the implementation of resolution 1701, in line with Security Council Resolution 2373 and in the context of the strategic dialogue between the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL,” he said.

“These, together with the consolidated deployment along the eastern border, have been important advances,” Guterres noted.

“To this end, well-equipped, well-trained and well-resourced Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces are a prerequisite,” the U.N. chief underlined.

He emphasized that stability requires “a transparent, accountable and democratic state, rooted in the rule of law and strong and functional institutions.”

“International and regional partners must also do their part,” he urged.

“Countries in the region should work to avoid any steps that could lead to misunderstandings, confrontation or escalation. It will be equally important to keep the international consensus in support of Lebanon together, and to provide the necessary resources,” Guterres said.

He also urged all countries taking part in Rome II to “remain strongly and visibly committed to stability in Lebanon – for the sake of the Lebanese people and for the wider peace that is so essential at this time.”