EU calls for urgent formation of government in Lebanon

The EU Monday called on Lebanon to urgently form a new government capable to address the extraordinary humanitarian, economic and security challenges the country is facing. "The EU looks forward to the timely holding of presidential and parliamentary elections in 2014 and encourages Lebanon to carry out necessary electoral reforms," said the EU Foreign Affairs Council which is meeting here today in a statement. The EU commended the Lebanese authorities for their open border policy and reiterated its appreciation for the support and generosity demonstrated by the authorities and population towards all the people fleeing the conflict in Syria. The EU also reiterated its call on international partners to increase their support to Lebanon, including at the upcoming Kuwait 2 Donors Conference, noted the statement. The EU expressed its concern at the unprecedented effect the Syrian crisis has on the stability of Lebanon as well as on its natural and economic resources, educational systems, health care and labour markets. The statement strongly called on all parties, including Hezbollah, to act responsibly, fully abide by Lebanon's dissociation policy from the conflict in Syria and support the efforts of President Sleiman to implement the provisions of the Baabda Declaration agreed by all political forces. The EU will continue to contribute to meeting the growing needs of host communities and refugees, it said. The statement recalled the EU commitment to support Lebanon's institutions and security forces, as well as its readiness to continue this assistance and explore possibilities for increased support to the Lebanese Armed Forces. The EU reaffirmed its support for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) and called on the Lebanese authorities to continue fulfilling their obligations regarding the STL, including the financial contribution.