Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier today (8 June) issued the following statement on yesterday's general elections in Lebanon:

“On present reports, yesterday's general elections in Lebanon were free and fair. This means the country has made further crucial progress towards greater political stability.

The elections demonstrate that the people of Lebanon remain committed to an openminded, democratic and united Lebanon. The country's major political forces have reaffirmed their intention to cooperate. That is an encouraging sign not only for Lebanon but also for the region as a whole.

I appeal to all actors in Lebanon to continue pursuing the path of reconciliation and compromise and to refrain from anything that could encourage violence and terror.

Germany's ongoing commitment to Lebanon in support of this endeavour will continue both on a bilateral basis and under EU and United Nations auspices.”

The elections in Lebanon took place on 7 June 2009. They were monitored by both international and EU election observers as well as representatives of Lebanese non-governmental organizations.