NNA - The following is the Statement of the International Support Group for Lebanon on the reassignment of Prime Minister, Najib Mikati: 

“The International Support Group for Lebanon (ISG) takes note of the designation of a Prime Minister. It calls on all political actors to form a government quickly. With the severe economic and social challenges it faces, Lebanon and its citizens cannot afford political deadlocks. The ISG also emphasizes that it is important to adhere to the constitutional calendar in order for the presidential election to take place on time.

The ISG urges Lebanese stakeholders, including executive and legislative authorities, to work quickly on the swift formation of a government that can implement important outstanding reforms in order to relieve the suffering of the Lebanese people. In particular, the authorities must deliver on commitments made in the 7 April staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), including budget laws, capital control, banking secrecy, banking resolution, government and central bank decisions on banking resolution and exchange rate unification, to lay a solid basis for socio-economic relief and a sustainable recovery of Lebanon. This is best achieved through an agreement with the IMF, supported by the international donors’ community.

The ISG continues to stand by Lebanon and its people.

The International Support Group has brought together the United Nations and the governments of China, France, Germany, Italy, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with the European Union and the Arab League.  It was launched in September 2013 by the UN Secretary-General with former President Michel Sleiman to help mobilize support and assistance for Lebanon’s stability, sovereignty and state institutions.

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