Statement of Position delivered by H.E. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, Following the Adoption of the Resolution Renewing the Mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)

Thank you, Mr. President, 

Guyana welcomes the adoption of this resolution which ensures that the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) will be able to continue its critical work through August 2025.

We wish to thank France for their constructive efforts during the course of the negotiations to consider the views of the host state, Lebanon, and all Council members. 

Our vote in favour of this resolution is a recognition of the indispensable role of UNIFIL in providing some level of security and stability to the people of Lebanon. We also know that UNIFIL is a critical partner in the efforts to de-escalate tensions along the Blue-Line, especially during this time when such tensions have significantly increased, not least because of the war in Gaza.

I wish to take this opportunity to express our deep gratitude to the men and women who staff UNIFIL. Their service, under constant threat of injury or even death, must be applauded. 

This Council must remain united in support of their efforts to execute their mandate. We also encourage the government of Lebanon and the Lebanese Armed Forces to continue to work closely with UNIFIL.  

Guyana is committed to remaining a constructive partner in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring lasting stability to Lebanon and the wider region. We encourage all parties to move beyond this period of heightened derision and mistrust and with the support of UNIFIL, to return to diplomatic engagement to ensure the full implementation of Resolution 1701, and ultimately a lasting peace for the people of Lebanon.

I Thank You.