SECRETARY-GENERAL CONGRATULATES LEBANESE ON ELECTION OF NEW PRESIDENT

The following statement was issued on Sunday, 25 May, by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Lebanon on the election of Michel Suleimane as President of the Republic.  This election brings to an end the constitutional void that has endured in Lebanon since 21 November 2007.

The Secretary-General hopes that today’s historic event leads to the revitalization of all of Lebanon's constitutional institutions and a return to political dialogue within this framework.  He urges all Lebanese parties to press ahead together in consolidating the sovereignty, stability and political independence of the Lebanese State, in accordance with the Taif accord and relevant Security Council resolutions.  The Secretary-General stands ready to support the Lebanese people as required and looks forward to working closely with the President and the future Government of Lebanon towards these goals.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record