Watkins Calls from Arsal for Demarcation of Lebanese-Syrian Border

UNDP Resident Representative in Lebanon Robert Watkins stressed on Thursday on the importance of demarcating the Lebanese-Syrian border, voicing the U.N.’s commitment to assisting the Lebanese authorities in addressing the humanitarian needs of the Syrian refugees.

“We would welcome a decision that would permit the High Relief Commission to operate throughout Lebanon to ensure a more efficient and coordinated response to the needs of the Lebanese and displaced population,” Watkins said during a visit to the eastern border town of Arsal in the Bekaa.

According to a statement issued by the U.N. official, he met with the head of the municipality of Arsal, Ali Hodzheiry, and other local officials.

“The U.N. has been closely following the developments in this area, particularly along the border with Syria,” Watkins said.

He praised the “generosity and hospitality” of the Lebanese families who are hosting the Syrian refugees.

“We hope this crisis will be resolved soon so that all the displaced Syrians can return to their homes as soon as possible,” the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon added.

Watkins said that his talks with Hodzheiry focused on the situation along the Lebanese-Syrian border and the impact of the recent security incidents on the resident population.

“These incidents highlight the importance of border management and delineation in this area,” he stated.

The Syrian security forces have violated several times Lebanon’s eastern and northern border since November 2011.

The Syrian troops infiltrated of into the eastern border town of Arsal on Wednesday and kidnapped a man who was later released in the day.

Syrian troops also crossed briefly on Wednesday into eastern Lebanon's border region of Masharii al-Qaa and planted mines around the home of a local resident.

Earlier, Watkins held a meeting with several officials at Zahle Serail.