EU expresses concern over situation in Lebanon

National leaders of the European Union (EU) on Friday expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Lebanon and underlined their determination to reinforce Lebanon's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

"A solution to the current political deadlock should be sought only through dialogue and with full respect for the democratic institutions of the country," said conclusions of a two-day EU summit, which began on Thursday.

The leaders confirmed their "full support" to efforts of Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora and his government to have dialogue with all political actors in Lebanon, and to tackle the important challenges the country is facing.

The leaders called on all parties in the region to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, notably the arms embargo.

They urged Israel to stop its violations of Lebanese airspace and demanded Syria to end "all interference in Lebanese internal affairs."

The EU leaders condemned the assassination of Lebanese Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel, and any attempt by internal or external forces to destabilize Lebanon through political assassinations or other terrorist acts.

They welcomed the endorsement by the Lebanese Council of Ministers of the draft status of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon. They expressed hopes that the tribunal can be established as early as possible. They also asked Syria to recognize and cooperate with the tribunal.

The leaders welcomed the U.N. Secretary General's intention to consider the possibilities for a greater U.N. role on the Shebaa farms issue, including the suggestion by the Lebanese government to place the area under U.N. jurisdiction until permanent border delineation and sovereignty over them are settled.

The Shebaa farms area was seized by Israel from Syria in 1967. But the area is claimed by Lebanon. Controversy over the area arose in 2000, as the U.N. certified that Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon was complete.

Source: Xinhua