Security Council extends UN forces mandate in south Lebanon

The United Nations Security Council yesterday extended the mandate of UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) until January 31, 2000. It also called for an end to violent acts targeting the force and for cooperation with UNIFIL.

The Security Council resolution (1254) expressed "strong support for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon within its internationally recognized boundaries."

The presidential statement made yesterday expressed regret for the loss of civilian life in south Lebanon and called on both sides to exercise restraint.

Meanwhile, Selim Tadmoury presented his credentials as the new permanent representative of Lebanon to the United Nations to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. Tadmoury previously served as Lebanon's ambassador to the Russian Federation, Finland and Turkey.