French troops to take part within UNIFIL in South Lebanon

French President Jacques Chirac has stressed his country's readiness to take part in the UNIFIL reinforces forces in Lebanon. He explained that the role of UNIFIL is to facilitate the process of Lebanese authorities having control in South Lebanon.

In exclusive statements to the Kuwaiti daily al-Qabas, in conclusion of works of the European Summit in Lisbon on Tuesday, Chirac said the role of UNIFIL is temporary and not permanent.

He expressed his hope that all will be patient and of good intention so as to have things proceed smoothly Chirac added that the UN chief Kofi Annan intends to deploy more UNIFIL forces, and this will be made by the end of next month. Annan is expected to give his proposals concerning the redeployment, especially to France which is ready to take part in the UN forces.

The French President indicated that the Lebanese authorities should shoulder their responsibilities and this matter is logical and is stated in UN resolution 425.