SG: Good afternoon everybody,

I am pleased to tell you that I am immensely happy to be back in this wonderful country, and its capital, a shining pearl on the Mediterranean!!!

I know, as you all, that the political situation in Lebanon is complex and difficult. The country now stands at an important crossroads in its modern history. A free and fair election of a new President according to constitutional rules without foreign interference is a milestone in the development of Lebanon as a vibrant democracy. It constitutes a pillar in its aspirations to recover its full political independence and sovereignty; and to secure its territorial integrity. The election of a new president should take place on time and in accordance with constitutional procedures.

In this endeavor, it is imperative that Parliament convenes in order to elect a new President. This President must be committed to the Taif reconciliation accord, the constitution and international legitimacy.

As Secretary-General of the United Nations, I am investing a significant amount of my time and attention to your country. I am working closely with the Security Council and other key member States. On my visit here, I will meet with a series of Lebanese leaders in order to assist Lebanon in securing its democracy.

My efforts are based on the legitimacy of relevant Security Council resolutions and, of course, consistent with the Lebanese Constitution.

I promise you, I will, as vigorously as I can, shoulder my responsibilities vis-à-vis Lebanon, as an active member state of the United Nations. I take for granted that all Lebanese leaders will do the same, wherever they belong in the political spectrum, in the best interest of their people.

The new Lebanese President should enjoy the broadest possible acceptance, so that he or she can represent all Lebanese.

I am also here to inform my Lebanese interlocutors that I have appointed Mr. Daniel Bellemare to succeed Mr. Serge Brammertz. I want to assure you that the process for establishing the Tribunal is irreversible. I am doing my best to expedite the process.

I am looking forward to meeting with my Lebanese friends today and tomorrow.

Thank you for your kind attention, and good luck.

I will take no questions at this point.