Mikati: Lebanon should not engage in proxy war

Prime Minister Najib Mikati hoped that the Lebanese become more convinced not to embroil themselves in the wars of others or to engage in a proxy war.               

Mikati, who is in New York to preside over the United Nations General Assembly meeting, told foreign news media that his main duty as Lebanese Prime Minister is preserve the country and spare it of the unfolding volatile developments around it.               

"The Lebanese scene is very fragile and is easily affected by any foreign development. It is common knowledge that Lebanon is divided between those who support the Syrian revolution and those who oppose it. We are trying to distance ourselves from the negative ramifications in Syria," Mikati explained.            

As for his position on the events in Syria, Mikati said: "My position is firm and known since the events started in Syria. I am against shedding blood and against what is taking place in Syria. Of course I denounce all the bloodletting and I told United Nations Special envoy to Syria Akhdar Ibrahimi that his first task is to end the spilling of blood in Syria."             

The Prime Minister underlined the importance of holding free elections so that the Syrian people will choose what they want.               

He added that the Lebanese government respects the will of the Syrian people who have strong bond and ties with the Lebanese people.   

He also assured that the parliamentary elections in Lebanon will be held on time.                     

Mikati is scheduled to meet the presidents of France, Egypt, Cyprus and Palestine as well as the Prime Ministers of Kuwait and Qatar.             

He will also hold talks with the Foreign Ministers of the United States, Russia and the United Arab Emirates.               

Furthermore, Mikati will meet U.S. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.