The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Joanna Fronteska, welcomed the "delivery of letters regarding the maritime boundary demarcation between Lebanon and Israel following the successful US mediation led by Special Presidential Coordinator Amos Hochstein."
After receiving the signed maritime coordinates from both countries at the UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura, Fronteska stated, "This is a historic achievement on multiple levels. I hope it serves as a step towards building trust that will enhance security and stability in the region and secure economic benefits for both countries." The Special Coordinator will submit the demarcation documents to the United Nations in New York.
The Special Coordinator commended "both Lebanon and Israel for reaching an agreement accepted by both parties." She emphasized the significance of this agreement for Lebanon, where political leaders demonstrated unity to achieve a common goal. She added, "The agreement opens a new chapter for Lebanon, which could help create positive momentum towards building consensus around the national interest of the country."
A statement from her media office mentioned that "since the adoption of the framework agreement in 2020, which initiated the negotiations on maritime demarcation, the United Nations has been committed to working with both countries and the United States to end their maritime border dispute."
Looking to the future, while all parties need to prioritize fulfilling their commitments under this agreement, the United Nations remains committed to assisting the parties in implementing it, as requested and within the limits of its mandate.
Recognizing the importance of sustaining security and peace, the Special Coordinator reiterated the necessity of fully implementing Security Council Resolution 1701 and other relevant resolutions.
