NNA - European Union Higher Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policies, European Commission Vice Head Catherine Ashton, expressed worry regarding the deteriorating conditions in Lebanon, especially in the wake of PM Najib Mikati's resignation.


In a statement issued Saturday by Ashton's spokesperson, she considered that the absence of consensus between various political forces within the government and parliament has actually led to the current crisis.
Ashton condemned the renewed violence in Tripoli while expressing regret over losses in lives. She urged all sides concerned to practice self-restraint, show cooperation in a spirit of dialogue and extend support to all security forces, including the Army, in preserving tranquility.


Ashton considered the presence of thousands of Syrians seeking refuge on Lebanese territories as posing a heavy burden on the country. She declared, herein, continued European Union support to Lebanese institutions, security forces and people in their confrontation of current challenges within the spirit of long-term mutual partnership between Lebanon and the EU.


=================== R.Sh.