DATE=6/18/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=LEBANON / UNITED NATIONS (S & L)
NUMBER=2-263590
BYLINE=LARRY FREUND
DATELINE=NEW YORK
INTERNET=YES
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
Intro: The United Nations Security Council has
(Sunday) formally endorsed U-N Secretary-General Kofi
Annan's finding that Israel has withdrawn its forces
from southern Lebanon. The council's endorsement
lengthy closed door talks during which the council
added a phrase to its statement indicating concern
about reports of serious violations of the pullout
since Friday. More from correspondent Larry Freund in
New York.
Text: The Security Council's talks - lasting much of
Saturday and Sunday - reflected continued disagreement
about the Israeli pullout from Lebanon.
On Friday, Secretary-General Annan proclaimed a day of
hope for the region when he said Israel had completely
withdrawn from Lebanese territory. But Lebanese
officials disputed Mr. Annan's announcement, saying
Lebanon insists on recovering every inch of its
territory.
For two days Russian representatives in New York
blocked any quick action by the Security Council.
After the private talks concluded Sunday, the Council
released a statement reflecting the agreement of all
15 members, including Russia. The carefully-worded
document endorses work done by the United Nations,
including the Secretary-General's conclusion that
Israel has withdrawn its forces from Lebanon. But it
notes with serious concern reports of violations that
have occurred since June 16th, when Mr. Annan made his
critical announcement at U-N headquarters. The council
calls on the parties to respect the line identified by
the United Nations.
/// Rest opt for long ///
Secretary-General Annan, now in the Middle East, says
there are problems concerning the demarcation of the
border between Israel and Lebanon. However, he says
both sides have agreed on the importance of finding a
solution.
Israel invaded Lebanon in 1978. Security Council
resolutions adopted that year require U-N peacekeeping
troops to verify an Israeli pullout. The peacekeepers
are then required to help Lebanon's army restore
security and authority in the border area. Israel
announced its withdrawal from Lebanon last month and
U-N peacekeepers since that time have been trying to
verify that all Israeli troops have left Lebanese
territory. Diplomats say the Security Council's
endorsement of Mr. Annan's verification of Israel's
withdrawal allows U-N peacekeepers to be deployed
along the Lebanese-Israeli border. (signed)
NEB/NY/LSF/KBK
NEB/ /
18-Jun-2000 18:23 PM LOC (18-Jun-2000 2223 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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