EU Concerned over Lack of Explicit Cabinet Commitment to STL

The European Union has expressed concern over “the absence of an explicit commitment” to the international tribunal in the cabinet’s policy statement.

The EU “expects that the new government will ensure promotion of stability, unity, sovereignty and independence of Lebanon in full respect of the constitution and the rule of law,” said a statement issued by the Foreign Affairs Council at the conclusion of its talks in Brussels on Monday.

“Concerned by the absence of an explicit commitment to cooperate with the Special Tribunal for Lebanon in the Ministerial Declaration, the Council calls upon the new government to respect and fulfill all its international obligations and commitments stemming from UNSCR

1757,” it said.

The conferees expected that Premier Najib Miqati’s cabinet will be committed to the full implementation of all relevant UNSC Resolutions, including 1559, 1680, 1701 and 1757.

“The Council expects all parties to fully cooperate with the tribunal. It further calls on all Lebanese actors to act constructively and continue to show restraint,” the statement said.

It added that “as Lebanon achieves sustainable progress towards reforms … the EU is prepared to match this with increased support, as foreseen in the framework of the new European Neighborhood Policy."