UN adopts resolution demanding Syria withdraw forces from Lebanon

The United Nations Security Council on Thursday narrowly voted in favor of a US-proposed resolution demanding respect of Lebanon's political independence and Syrian forces' withdrawal from Lebanon.

The vote by the 15-nation council was nine in favor and six abstentions, with none of the five permanent members -- China, Russia, France, Britain and the United States -- exercising veto power. The six abstentions were China, Pakistan, Algeria, Brazil, Russia and the Philippines.

The resolution, co-sponsored by France, Britain and Germany, was approved despite strong appeals from Lebanon and Syria for the council not to proceed with it.

The vote was requested by the US and France in time for Friday's vote by the Lebanese parliament on a constitutional change, which would allow President Emile Lahoud to stay in power for an extra three years after his term expires on Nov. 24.

Syria has up to 20,000 troops in Lebanon and enjoys great political influence in its southern neighbor. Washington said Lahoud is pro-Syrian and accused Syria of demanding the constitutional amendment for him.

The resolution "reaffirms its call for the restrict respect of Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity, and political independence of Lebanon under the sole and exclusive authority of the government of Lebanon throughout Lebanon."

It declares the council's support for "a free and fair electoral process in Lebanon's upcoming presidential election conducted according to Lebanese constitutional rules devised without foreign interference or influence."

It also calls for the disbanding and disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias.

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan is requested to report to the council within 30 days on the implementation of the proposed measure.

Before the council vote, Mohammed Issa, Lebanon's secretary-general for foreign affairs, said Syrian troops were deployed in the country at the legitimate request of Lebanon to keep stability and security.

He stressed that Syrian troops will remain in Lebanon so long as Israel occupies Lebanon's territory.

Source: Xinhua