The Greek government said on Monday that Athens was not contemplating the deployment of land forces in the proposed NATO peacekeeping force in Lebanon, but possibly a Greek Navy frigate, a specialized unit of underwater commandos and a limited number of officers to help in the running of the force.

The NATO member, which takes over the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council on Sept. 1, will not send land forces to Lebanon, foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said at a regular press briefing.

At the moment, participation with land forces is "beyond the intentions" of the Greek government, he said.

Koumoutsakos added that the details of its structure and other rules of engagement had not been finalized, adding that Athens was considering participation in order to promote lasting peace.

The announcement comes a day before Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis is scheduled to begin an August 22-25 tour of the Middle East.