U.N. Special Envoy Terje Roed-Larsen expressed optimism at recent developments in Lebanon and lauded Syria for providing a positive atmosphere during the Lebanese parliamentary elections last month.
"I am optimistic about latest developments on the Lebanese scene," pan-Arab daily al-Hayat quoted Roed-Larsen as saying.

"The legislative elections that were lately held early this month represent the cornerstone for consolidating Lebanon's sovereignty and political independence," U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon's envoy on the implementation of Security Council resolution 1559 reportedly said.

He said all Lebanese political forces accepted the results of the June 7 polls and moved forward, "leaving a very positive impression."

Roed-Larsen also lauded regional countries, including Syria, which provided a positive atmosphere for "the encouraging developments in Lebanon."

He hoped the "spirit of reconciliation and dialogue" would continue.