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UNITED NATIONS NATIONS UNIES Office of the Special Coordinator Bureau du Coordinateur Spécial for Lebanon pour le Liban United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Michael Williams Statement Following Meeting with Mr. Samir Geagea, Leader of the Lebanese Forces Party Beirut, Lebanon Monday, 14 March 2011 Good afternoon, I just had a very good meeting with Dr. Samir Geagea. We talked both about the situation in Lebanon and in the region. And we also talked of course about the rally that was organized yesterday, Sunday, by the March 14 coalition. I welcomed the fact that despite the size of the event, that everything was handled in a calm and peaceful manner, without any major incidents being reported. And in this regard, I would like to take the opportunity to commend the Lebanese Army and the ISF for all their efforts as well as the organizers of the rally for ensuring that the event took place in dignity and in a peaceful manner. That is, I believe, a very good reflection of the vibrant democracy that flourishes, perhaps uniquely in the Middle East, in Lebanon. Obviously, different parties in the country have different views. And I shared with Dr. Geagea my belief that dialogue remains the best tool for resolving differences, no matter how sensitive. We talked a little about the formation of a new government. In this regard, I reiterated to Dr. Geagea the expectation of the United Nations that any new government, irrespective of its composition, should meet the aspirations of all Lebanese people. We also expect a new cabinet to continue to respect Lebanon’s international obligations. Thank you very much. * * * .

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