GCC welcomes Lebanon 'important' decision to disarm Hezbollah
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi, welcomed Friday a decision by the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, describing it as an important step towards sovereignty and stability.
Budaiwi said the decision will significantly contribute to enhancing the trust of the international community and multilateral partners, paving the way for a more attractive environment for investment, including in the private sector.
In his statement, Budaiwi called for the implementation of all U.N. Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701 and the Taif Agreement. "This would meet the aspirations of the Lebanese people for a more secure, prosperous, and stable future," he said.
The cabinet met on Thursday for the second time in days to discuss disarming Hezbollah. The meeting considered a U.S. proposal that includes a timetable for Hezbollah's disarmament, with Washington pressing Beirut to take action.
Information Minister Paul Morcos said the cabinet endorsed the introduction of the U.S. text without discussing specific timelines. The introduction lists 11 "objectives" including "ensuring the sustainability" of a November ceasefire with Israel, and "the gradual end of the armed presence of all non-governmental entities, including Hezbollah, in all Lebanese territory".
It also calls for the the deployment of Lebanese troops in border areas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the five places in the south they have occupied since last year's war with Hezbollah.
Source: Naharnet
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