UN calls for Lebanese election 'as soon as possible'
 

https://s2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/0...a795229505.jpgThe UN Security Council expressed "disappointment and concern" Thursday that an election of a new Lebanese president has **t occurred and demanded that polls be held without delay. In a unanimous declaration, the Council's 15 member states urged the country's parliament "to uphold Leba**n's long standing democratic tradition and to work to ensure that presidential elections take place as soon as possible and without external interference." Over the past two months, Leba**n's parliament convened five times to try to elect a successor to President Michel Sleiman but failed each time due to a lack of quorum. The Council said it "reiterates its full support for the government of Leba**n to discharge its duties during this interim period." It also emphasized "the need for sustained international support to Leba**n in addressing the eco**mic, security and humanitarian challenges." In addition, the Council "stressed the importance for all Lebanese parties to... refrain from any involvement in the Syrian crisis." Consensus on a presidential candidate was complicated by the conflict in neighboring Syria.




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