Statement by U.S. Ambassador David Hale following his meeting with President of the Chamber of Deputies Nabih Berri

May 19, 2014

Good morning.
I had the honor just now of meeting with the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Nabih Berri.  And I met earlier this morning, as well, with the President of the Republic, Michel Sleiman.
I took this occasion to repeat what has been a consistent position of the United States.
We urge Lebanon's leaders to conduct the presidential election on time and in accordance with the constitution.Our aim is to help the Lebanese protect the electoral process, not to pre-determine the outcome.
 
I believe that the vast majority of the Lebanese people want their country to be peaceful and stable, and meeting its international obligations.  The international community wants to help in that regard, and with the many challenges that the Lebanese face. 
Success will not be possible without Lebanese leaders who are committed to those goals and who are partners in that effort.  It will take a functioning presidency, parliament, and cabinet to tackle these and other challenges, and to avoid the price of gaps and paralysis.
And we believe it is still within the capacity of Lebanon's leaders to achieve these goals, including the timely election of a president.
Thank you.