U.N. Wants Capable Government, Urges Politicians to Support Lebanese Army

U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Derek Plumbly said the formation of a capable government facilitates the work of the United Nations in Lebanon.

In an interview with As Safir daily published on Thursday, Plumbly said it was up to the Lebanese to decide on the form of the new cabinet but it was “important to form a capable government as soon as possible.”

He also stressed the importance of holding the national dialogue under President Michel Suleiman at Baabda palace.

“The concerns of the U.N. in Lebanon and the South, and on the issue of the refugees require consultations. The presence of a capable government facilitates our work,” he said.

The diplomat shied away from answering about the fears of the U.N. on the repercussions of a possible U.S. military strike on Syria.

He only said that U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon discussed the issue with the members of the Security Council a few days ago.

“What I am concerned with as the U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon is the protection of Lebanon as stated in the Baabda Declaration,” Plumbly told As Safir.

The U.S. Congress could vote as early as next week to authorize strikes to punish Syria's alleged use of chemical weapons.

Plumbly denied there was a decision to evacuate the families of UNIFIL's civilian members over the possible U.S. action in neighboring Syria.

“No such decision was taken,” he said. “UNIFIL will continue in its mission … This won't change no matter what the circumstances were.”

“Does anyone have any doubt about that?” he wondered.

Plumbly lauded the Lebanese army for not being confessionally divided. He described it as a “symbol” that reflects the unity of the people.

He said the army was under a lot of pressure and that it deserved the support of all political parties.