The Deputy Permanent Representative of Lebanon to the United Nations, H.E. Caroline Ziade paid a visit today to the headquarters of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in Naqoura in southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major-General Luciano Portolano welcomed H.E. Ziade to UNIFIL and expressed his appreciation for the Deputy Permanent Representative's (DPR) initiative to visit the Mission.

Major-General Portolano briefed the Deputy Permanent Representative on the work of the Mission with a focus on the current situation in UNIFIL's area of operations, coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces, relation with the local population, CIMIC and Civil Affairs activities, and related common concerns within the framework of UN Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).

This was the first visit of H.E. Ziade to UNIFIL. During the meeting the Lebanese Deputy Permanent Representative praised the work carried out by UNIFIL in close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) emphasizing that since 2006 UNIFIL's area of operations has witnessed an unprecedented period of stability. She also added that peace is a common goal shared by both the Lebanese people and the United Nations.

"I am deeply grateful and honoured for the visit. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to you and to the Government of Lebanon for the continued cooperation and support to UNIFIL and the strong commitment of the parties to resolution 1701. Much that has been achieved in the region to date is a testament to the excellent relations and cooperation that exist between your Government, Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL." Maj.-Gen. Portolano said.

After the meeting UNFIL Head of Mission emphasized the great importance UNIFIL attaches to its relations with the local population among whom the Mission is operating: "In order to effectively implement our mandated tasks, UNIFIL liaises with local government representatives, communities and religious leaders; this visit is a demonstration that Lebanon stands firm in its commitment to UN Security Council resolution 1701 and recognizes the Mission's efforts and determination to increase effective Government's authority in south Lebanon."