Describing the resolution as "a positive step toward peace and stability in the Middle East," the ministry also called on the Israeli and Lebanese governments to take all necessary steps to fully and effectively implement the resolution.

In addition, the Cypriot ministry reiterated commitment to contributing to the realization of peace in Lebanon and its willingness to assist the Lebanese government to face the problems created by the conflict.

Last Friday, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1701, which authorizes an increase of the existing UN force in Lebanon to 15,000 troops to help Lebanese troops take control of south Lebanon while Israel withdraws in parallel.

A ceasefire went into effect on Monday after more than 1,000 Lebanese and 157 Israelis had been killed in the nearly-five-week-old conflict, which erupted on July 12 following the abduction of two Israeli soldiers by Hezbollah.