UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major-General Paolo Serra today called on the President of Lebanon Michel Sleiman and Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri in Beirut. He also visited former Prime Minister Najib Mikati to express gratitude for his support to UNIFIL during his tenure.

Discussions in the meetings were particularly focused on the situation in UNIFIL’s area of operations in south Lebanon and issues related to the implementation of UNIFIL’s mandate under UN Security Council resolution 1701.

Following the meetings, Major-General Serra said: “I had very good meetings today with the leaders, including with PM Tammam Salam earlier in the week. I heard from them highly encouraging words of support for UNIFIL. They reiterated their commitment to resolution 1701 and acknowledged the enhanced significance of our mission in keeping the calm along the Blue Line in these challenging times.”

“I briefed my interlocutors on our work together with the Lebanese Armed Forces that has served to deliver security and stability in our area of operations. I particularly emphasized the positive dynamics of our partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces that has enabled us to constantly adapt our combined force posture to the changing circumstances on the ground.”

“An important factor in our success has been the understanding and support of the people of south Lebanon, and I assured the leaders that the safety and security our cherished hosts remain uppermost in our considerations.”