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UNIFIL fully behind Lebanon's army - commander

BEIRUT, Jan 19 (KUNA) -- Commander of the UN forces in South Lebanon (UNIFIL) General Micheal Beary said Friday international forces were standing by the Lebanese army in maintaining stability in the south.
"I have emphasized UNIFILآ’s steadfast support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), our strategic partner, as well as LAF's exemplary resolve and professionalism in maintaining stability in the South," Beary said after separate meetings with President Michel Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berry and Prime Minister Saad Hariri.
He said in a statement they discussed the situation in UNIFIL's area of operations, especially along the Blue Line, issues related to the implementation of UNIFIL's mandate under UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and the importance of the upcoming Rome II conference.
Beary highlighted UNIFIL's efforts as part of the Strategic Dialogue process to facilitate international assistance to LAF in the south, in coordination with the International Support Group for Lebanon.
"I also assured them of our continued best efforts to preserve the calm along the Blue Line and to work towards peace and stability in south Lebanon," he said.
In relation to the situation along the Blue Line, Beary stressed need for parties to take advantage of UNIFIL's liaison and coordination arrangements, to find solutions aimed at preventing violations, decreasing tension and maintaining stability in the area of operations.
"Since 2006 the south of Lebanon has enjoyed an unprecedented period of calm. The unremitting support of the Lebanese authorities and the population has been crucial in the achievement of this prolonged stability," the UNIFIL Commander said.
UNIFIL currently has around 10,500 peacekeepers who maintain some 13,500 operational activities per month, by day and night, in the area of operations. UNIFIL is complemented by a six-vessel Maritime Task Force. (end) ayb.bs