Foreign Secretary statement on Lebanon

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE News Release issued by The Government News Network on 9 May 2008

The clashes in Lebanon over the last 48 hours are a grave concern. I have today spoken to Lebanese Prime Minister Siniora and expressed Britain's firm support for the Lebanese people and government and our desire to see a stable and secure future for his country.

We support strongly the efforts of the international community and the Arab League to resolve the situation. All sides now need to work to reduce tension and restore confidence in Lebanon's future. This means first and foremost stopping the violence. Armed groups must withdraw from the streets and the Lebanese Army should be allowed to restore legitimate order. All of Lebanon's leaders must commit themselves to peaceful and democratic dialogue in the interests of all communities in Lebanon. And a new Lebanese President must be elected quickly and constitutionally.