Tuesday, November 27, 2007

President Bush on Lebanese elections at the Annapolis conference

President Bush Attends Annapolis Conference
Memorial Hall
United States Naval Academy
Annapolis, Maryland

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
November 27, 2007

"The United States strongly feels that these efforts will yield the peace that we want -- and that is why we will continue to support the Lebanese people. We believe democracy brings peace. And democracy in Lebanon is vital, as well, for the peace in the Middle East. Lebanese people are in the process of electing a president. That decision is for the Lebanese people to make -- and they must be able to do so free from outside interference and intimidation. As they embark on this process, the people of Lebanon can know that the American people stand with them -- and we look forward to the day when the people of Lebanon can enjoy the blessings of liberty without fear of violence or coercion."

Full Text

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/11/print/20071127-2.html

Friday, November 23, 2007

State Department Statement on Lebanon

State Department
Press Statement
Sean McCormack, Spokesman

Washington, DC
November 23, 2007

Lebanon

Today, due to a boycott of Hizballah Members and their allies, Lebanon's Parliament once again failed in electing a new president for Lebanon. With the expiration of President Lahoud's term at midnight tonight, the Lebanese cabinet will temporarily assume executive powers and responsibilities until a new president is elected by Lebanon's Parliament. This is the procedure stipulated by the Lebanese constitution, and will ensure that the government is able to continue conducting its business without interruption. The United States Government commends Lebanon's armed forces and security services for their stated commitment to ensuring law and order during this interim period, and we urge all Lebanese political groups to do their part to maintain calm and promote security for Lebanon's citizens.

Discussions should continue aimed at electing, as quickly as possible and according to the constitution and to democratic principles, a new Lebanese president who will stand for Lebanon's independence and sovereignty and uphold international resolutions. The United States and its allies will not waver in our support for the people of Lebanon as they defend their freedom against all attempts at foreign interference and intimidation.

2007/1035

Released on November 23, 2007