Secretary-General's remarks upon arrival at UNHQ

SG: Yes, I still hope we can do it. I hope we should be able to do it today. The will is there. We are close.

Q: How about Lebanese Prime Minister Siniora? Is he on board for the UNIFIL thing?

SG: I think they've sorted out quite a lot of the differences.

Q: So you are positive it's happening today.

SG: I would want to see it happening today. There's no reason why it shouldn't.

Q: Mr. Secretary-General, are you optimistic about a vote today?

SG: I think it's important that we make progress today. Each day that the discussions go on, the death, the killings and the destruction continues in the region, and civilians on both sides continue to suffer. I think we've had enough discussions, the issues have been discussed all around and it is time for decision, and I hope the [Security] Council will take firm action today. I see no reason why they shouldn't. Most of the Council members are determined to go ahead. They are frustrated themselves, and I hope today they will have the opportunity to pronounce themselves.

Q: Did you speak with Siniora this morning, Sir?

SG: I speak to him everyday and I will be speaking to him later in the day.

Q: Is the Russian draft off the table now in that case to your knowledge?

SG: I think the Russian draft was also an indication of the frustration. Like me, they had hoped for a quick action and if the impact of that draft is to accelerate collective Council decision, then we should all be happy.

Thank you.