Chirac: Security and sovereignty of Lebanon have to be defended

Read it in Russian

President of France Jacques Chirac is convinced that “all forces that threaten security, stability, and sovereignty of Lebanon have to be stopped.” As REGNUM correspondent was informed at the G8 summit organizing committee, Chirac made this statement during his bilateral meeting with US President George Bush. He also said that “sustainable ceasefire and civilian protection” have to be established in Lebanon. It is necessary to resume dialog with the Head of Palestinian Autonomy Mahmoud Abbas, President of France maintained.

George Bush announced that he lays hopes on Paris and Washington’s “being able to achieve a clear common viewpoint” on the issue. Chirac and Bush both stressed the importance of implementing resolution of UN Security Council providing disarmament of Lebanese armed units, including Hezbollah.

The G8 summit convened in St. Petersburg on July 15. In the coming days, leaders of Russia, USA, Japan, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, France, and Canada, as well as the Chairman of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and heads of invited states will hold a number of sessions and bilateral meetings.