COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION CONCLUSIONS ON LEBANON

3065th FOREIGN AFFAIRS Council meeting
Brussels, 31 January 2011
The Council adopted the following conclusions:
"1. The Council continues to closely follow developments in Lebanon.
2. It takes note of the designation of Mr Mikati as Prime Minister by President Sleiman. It calls upon the Lebanese authorities to seek the broadest possible consensus and to preserve unity, in full respect with the principles enshrined in the Lebanese Constitution, the Taif accord and with all Lebanon's international obligations.
3. The Council stresses the importance it attaches to the independent and democratic functioning of Lebanese institutions, free from any interference including from the outside. The Council calls on all parties to cooperate in a spirit of dialogue and consensus and to refrain from violence or intimidation.
4. The Council expresses its appreciation for the work carried out by the National Unity Government led by PM Hariri after the democratic elections of 2009.
5. The Council reaffirms its continuing commitment towards the Special Tribunal for Lebanon(STL) as an independent court, created by UNSC Resolution 1757 and following the highest judicial standards. The STL must continue its work without impediment and with the cooperation of the Lebanese government. Funding must be preserved. In this regard, the Council notes that the EU and individual Member States stand ready to provide further funding. At the same time the EU encourages others to contribute.
6. The Council remains determined to reinforce Lebanon's sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, unity and stability. The Council recalls its commitment to the full implementation of all relevant UNSC Resolutions, including 1559, 1680, 1701 and 1757.
7. The Council supports and commends the crucial role of UNIFIL, whose activities alongside the Lebanese Armed Forces continue to be essential for peace in the region.