The Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Major-General Paolo Serra, today chaired a regular tripartite meeting with senior officers from the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) at the UN Position at Ras Al Naqoura crossing.

The meeting discussed the implementation of relevant provisions of UN Security Council resolution 1701 under UNIFIL's mandate, including the situation along the Blue Line, the ongoing visible marking of the Blue Line, violations and incidents as well as the issue of withdrawal of Israeli forces from northern Ghajar.

Major-General Serra said: "It was a constructive meeting. Both parties expressed their full support and commitment to work together with UNIFIL for the implementation of the relevant provisions of resolution 1701, to maintain calm in the area and to prevent incidents and tension along the Blue Line. In this context they have also expressed interest in speeding up the marking of the Blue Line".

The Force Commander also expressed satisfaction that the situation in the area of operations has remained quiet and stable, with the parties reiterating their commitment to the cessation of hostilities.
He added: "I need to emphasize the need for both parties to remain committed to cooperating with UNIFIL at every level."