UN Aims to Support Lebanon's Economic Revival: Guterres
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Synopsis
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres declared that the UN is fully committed to supporting Lebanon's economic revival during his visit to the country. Guterres emphasized solidarity with the Lebanese people and reaffirmed the UN's ongoing support for the nation's stability amidst multiple crises.
Key Takeaways
- UN's commitment to Lebanon's recovery.
- Guterres expresses solidarity with Lebanon.
- Support for various Lebanese sectors.
- Importance of human rights and rule of law.
- Potential for political stability and reform.
Beirut, Jan 17 (NationPress) Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), stated that the UN is committed to putting forth all necessary efforts to assist Lebanon in achieving economic recovery.
These comments were made by Guterres upon his arrival at the airport in Beirut, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"The UN aims to back all sectors within Lebanon using its resources, allowing the nation to reclaim its status as a land of peace, beauty, and prosperity within the region," he remarked.
The UN leader emphasized that his visit was to convey profound solidarity with the Lebanese populace, who have endured various internal and regional crises.
Guterres reiterated that the UN Interim Force stationed in Lebanon, along with its offices, will persist in aiding the country's stability.
On the other hand, Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, who welcomed Guterres at the airport, remarked, "Lebanon is a nation that cherishes peace, adheres to international laws, and values the resolutions of international legitimacy. We are grateful for the UN's unwavering support for our sovereignty and independence, and we depend on its role to navigate through the economic turmoil and restore what was damaged by Israeli attacks."
Previously, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed that his office is prepared to enhance human rights initiatives in Lebanon, advocating for an investment in the rule of law.
"My office is ready to bolster our human rights efforts and support the country as it progresses," he stated during a press conference in Beirut, according to a release by the United Nations Information Center.
Turk conveyed his office's assistance for essential reforms necessary to improve the rule of law, judicial independence, and transparency during discussions with the newly appointed Lebanese president and prime minister-designate, as reported by Xinhua.
"I applaud the President's public vow to guarantee equality, justice, and protection for all, as well as to uphold freedoms, press freedom, and expression," he added.
Turk observed that with the recent leadership changes in Lebanon, there is potential for political stability, economic recovery, and the timely execution of vital reforms to tackle the numerous socio-economic challenges and stark inequalities facing the country.
"Human rights serve as a governance tool. This was a significant message that I conveyed," he concluded.
