Naharnet

Paris Urges New Govt. to Honor Int'l Commitments, 'Particularly on STL'

France on Tuesday urged Lebanon's new government to honor its international commitments, including maintaining support for the U.N.-backed Special Tribunal for Lebanon.

"The formation of the Lebanese government ... is an important step for Lebanon and the Lebanese," the French foreign ministry said in a statement, referring to a new cabinet dominated by Hizbullah and its allies.

"It is essential that the government pursues the implementation of Lebanon's international obligations and commitments, particularly on the Special Tribunal for Lebanon and its funding," the French statement added.

Prime Minister Najib Miqati faces the delicate task of framing his cabinet's policy on the Netherlands-based tribunal (STL).

The court is widely expected to indict Hizbullah operatives over the killing, a move the Lebanese armed group has repeatedly warned against.

France said it hopes the new government will "ensure the security and stability of the country with respect for the state of law, the constitution and the neutrality of the state," the statement said.

"It is by the yardstick of these principles and acts that we will judge the new Lebanese government."

Source: Agence France Presse


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