UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Paolo Serra, today called on Lebanese President Michel Sleiman and the Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri and held separate meetings with them in Beirut.

During the meetings, the Force Commander briefed the President and the Speaker on the situation in UNIFIL's area of operation. Issues related to the implementation of UNIFIL's mandate under UN Security Council resolution 1701 and the prevailing situation in UNIFIL's Area of Operations in South Lebanon were discussed.

Following the meeting Major-General Serra said: "I heard strong support from both the Lebanese President and the Speaker of Parliament and will continue to work closely with the leaders to ensure sustainable peace and security in Southern Lebanon in close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces."

The Force Commander emphasized that UNIFIL remains focused on its mandated tasks under UN Security Council resolution 1701. He expressed satisfaction at the prevailing calm and stability in the UNIFIL area of operation over the last seven years, adding that the parties continue to express their strong commitment to the cessation of hostilities and their willingness to work in close coordination with UNIFIL for the implementation of UNSCR 1701.