Lebanon: In a SC briefing today, the UN Deputy Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Robert Watkins, warned that the recent security incidents in the country, including kidnappings and armed clashes, threaten the Government’s efforts to promote peace and development in the country. Watkins met with Lebanon’s Minister of Interior, Marwan Charbel, with whom he had a “very detailed and lengthy discussion” about the situation in Lebanon, noting that he as been closely following with concern the recent security incidents in the country.
Camp Ashraf: After being asked yesterday about allegations by a former staff member of misleading use of photos or “doctoring” of reports in connection with the work of the UN on Camp Ashraf in Iraq, the SG’s Spokesperson said that the UNDPA says very clearly that such allegations are false. The Spokesperson added that it is “regrettable” that such a distorted picture is being presented of UN efforts to resolve the situation in Camp Ashraf peacefully.
Syrian Representative in NY: It is “probable” that the SG will meet with the new Joint Representative for Syria Lakhdar Brahimi tomorrow. Brahimi is on his way to New York, where he will be based for the duration of his new position.
Today is the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition. In remembrance of what the day stands for, the head of UNESCO called for reflection on the transformation brought about by the slave trade to the world, and urged countries to protect their citizens against racism and forced labor.