EU urges restraint in Lebanon

EU High Representative Catherine Ashton Wednesday extended her deepest sympathy to the families of the victims, to the Lebanese Armed Forces and to all those who have suffered from violence during the recent clashes in Sidon. "The European Union reiterates its commitment to Lebanon's peace, unity, sovereignty and independence. The EU strongly supports all national institutions in their efforts to preserve peace and security," she said in a statement. The EU also supports the judiciary in combating impunity and holding to account all those who resort to violence, noted the EU foreign policy chief. Ashton recalled that during her last visit to Lebanon of 17-18 June, she underlined the EU support for Lebanon's policy of dissociation from the conflict in Syria. "Today I urge once again all the parties to show restraint and fully abide by the commitments made in the Baabda Declaration. My support goes to all those working to de-escalate tensions through dialogue and peaceful means," added the statement.