    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [February 21, 2005]
    [Pages 280-281]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and President Jacques
    Chirac: Lebanon
    February 21, 2005

        The United States and France join with the European Union and the
    international community in condemning the assassination of former
    Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, and in their support for a free,
    independent, and democratic Lebanon. We support the U.N. investigation
    into this terrorist act and urge the full cooperation of all parties in
    order to identify those responsible for this act.

        We urge full and immediate implementation of UNSCR 1559 in all its
    aspects, including its call for a sovereign, independent, and democratic
    Lebanon as well as for the consolidation of security under the authority
    of a Lebanese government free from foreign domination.
        Lebanon's forthcoming parliamentary elections can mark another
    milestone in Lebanon's return to independence and democracy if they are
    free and fair, conducted without outside interference, and guaranteed by
    international observers. The implementation of UNSCR 1559 is essential
    to the organization and success of these elections. The people of
    Lebanon deserve this opportunity, and we stand with them in their
    aspirations for freedom, sovereignty, and security.

    [[Page 281]]

     Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this joint statement.