| US says Lebanese vote
'first step' toward sovereign govt WASHINGTON,
May 30 (AFP) - The United States on Monday congratulated the Lebanese people on holding a
peaceful round of parliamentary elections, calling it a first step toward setting up a
fully sovereign government.
"This is an important first step in fulfilling the aspirations of the Lebanese people
for a sovereign and democratic government," State Department spokesman Richard
Boucher said in a statement.
"We acknowledge the essential role that Lebanese domestic observers and the UN
technical team played along with international election observers, including those from
the European Union," Boucher said.
Sunday's vote was the first in three decades that was held free of the grip of
neighbouring Syria, which withdrew its troops from Lebanon a month ago.
Boucher said the United States and the international community will continue to support
the democratic process in Lebanan as the country's government moves forward with
preparations for a subsequent round of elections, which will be held on June 5, June 12
and June 19. |
Copyright 2005 AFP. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast,
rewritten or redistributed.
