Beirut: The United Nations is looking forward to working with the newly formed Lebanese government, as stated by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres late Sunday. According to Kuwait News Agency, the statement was delivered by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary General. Guterres expressed his welcome for the formation of a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. He emphasized the United Nations' eagerness to collaborate closely with the new government on its priorities, which include consolidating the cessation of hostilities and fully implementing resolution 1701 (2006). The statement highlighted the UN's support for addressing Lebanon's pressing needs and aspirations through recovery, reconstruction, and implementing a comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable reform agenda. The statement reiterated the United Nations' commitment to supporting Lebanon's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence, in line with the Taif Accords and the Baabda Decla ration. It also stressed the importance of effectively implementing Security Council resolutions 1701 (2006), 1559 (2004), and other relevant resolutions, which remain crucial for Lebanon's stability and regional peace. The newly formed government marks the first under the tenure of Lebanese President Michel Aoun, who was elected on January 9th. President Aoun tasked Prime Minister Salam with forming the new government on January 13th, following parliamentary deliberations that secured Salam 84 votes from 128 MPs, thereby endorsing his government formation.
