Lebanese Pres. Urges Renewal Of UNIFIL Mandate

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BEIRUT, Aug 23 (KUNA) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun cautioned against possible termination of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon mandate before full withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces from the southern parts of the country.
During his meeting with US Senator Darin Lahood and Rep. Stephen Cohen at Baabda Palace on Saturday evening, Gen. Aoun underscored the importance of renewing the mandate of the UNIFIL peacekeeping forces operating in the south.
He warned of the risk of ending the mission before the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the return of Lebanese POWs, the completion of deployment of the Lebanese Army along the borders, and the implementation of Resolution 1701 in all its provisions, the National News Agency reported, citing a statement from the Presidency.
"Lebanon is awaiting the final Israeli response to the paper carried by Ambassador Thomas Barrack, who will visit Lebanon with Ms. Morgan Ortagus next Tuesday," NNA quoted him as saying.
"Lebanon hasn't been officially informed of recent press reports that Israel plans to establish a buffer zone in the south," he told his guests in the presence of US Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa Johnson.
He briefed the US congressmen the tasks entrusted to the Lebanese Army, including maintaining internal security, combating terrorism and drug smuggling, and protecting the borders.
He called on the United States to continue providing the Army with the necessary equipment and supplies, given the difficult economic conditions the country experiences.
Gen. Aoun affirmed his government's commitment to implementing the required reforms in various fields, and combating corruption. (end)
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