Wronecka hails 'new chapter for Lebanon' after Israel deal signed

United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka on Thursday warmly welcomed “the handover of letters delineating the maritime boundary between Lebanon and Israel following successful U.S. mediation, under the leadership of Special Presidential Coordinator Amos Hochstein.”

“This is a historic achievement at many levels. I hope it will serve as a confidence-building measure that promotes more security and stability in the region and economic benefits for both countries,” said the Special Coordinator who received the signed maritime coordinates from both sides at the UNIFIL premises in Naqoura. The Special Coordinator will deposit the documents at the U.N. Headquarters in New York.

The Special Coordinator commended both Lebanon and Israel for reaching a “mutually-agreed solution.” She also underlined “the particular significance for Lebanon where the political leaders demonstrated their unity towards a common goal.”

“This is a new chapter for Lebanon that could also create a positive momentum to build consensus around issues of national interest,” the Special Coordinator added.

Since the adoption of the Framework Agreement that launched the negotiation process in 2020, the United Nations has been working with both countries and the United States to put an end to their maritime boundary dispute, the statement from Wronecka’s office said.

“Looking ahead and while all stakeholders should prioritize upholding the commitments outlined in the agreement, the United Nations remains committed to assist the parties to implement it, as requested and within its mandate,” the statement added.

Highlighting the need for “sustainable peace and security,” the Special Coordinator reiterated “the importance of the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 and other relevant resolutions.”