I just had a very good meeting with former President Gemayel. We discussed issues related to the region and to Lebanon, particularly areas of cooperation between the United Nations and Lebanon including the issue of the Syrian refugees and how to ensure the needed assistance to them and to make available the necessary support for the Lebanese Government, municipalities and host communities.
This is very important for the United Nations. We also discussed UNIFIL and issues related to resolution 1701, including the recent presidential statement that was issued by the Security Council, which is important because it reflects the international consensus with regards to Lebanon.
We also discussed political issues, particularly the importance of success in forming a new government. President Gemayel and I were agreed on the priority of this. As far as the United Nations is concerned, it is important to have an effective partner, which is not a criticism of current ministers but the current government is a caretaker government. I believe the Lebanese people share the desire for an effective government.
QUESTION: What would you consider a good government during this period?
SCL DEREK PLUMBLY: This is not up to me. This is a strictly Lebanese decision.
QUESTION: Do you believe a unity government would be useful for Lebanon?
SCL DEREK PLUMBLY: The decision regarding the shape of the government is up to Lebanon but of course a capable government would require support from all sides.
QUESTION: Following the European decision to add Hizbullah’s military wing on the European terror list, do you fear for the UNIFIL troops?
SCL DEREK PLUMBLY: I don’t think so. The United Nations is the United Nations. The United Nations is made up of all States and UNIFIL includes troops from over 30 states. I believe everyone in Lebanon and in the region is benefiting from the security and stability that derives from the presence of UNIFIL troops in the south.
QUESTION: What is your view of the latest European decision on Hizbullah?
SCL DEREK PLUMBLY: This is a European decision and it is not for me to comment on this. Thank you.