London - Britain yesterday welcomed Israel's pullout from southern Lebanon but warned all sides to work to reduce tension and end violence in the region.
The British Foreign Secretary, Mr Robin Cook, said he looked forward to confirmation of a full withdrawal in line with a UN Security Council resolution.
"I deplore the loss of lives in south Lebanon over the past few days and urge all to continue to work to minimise tension and violence and to ensure that withdrawal results in the successful and peaceful return of south Lebanon to Lebanese government authorities," Mr Cook said. He said the withdrawal was an "an important step on the path to a comprehensive peace in the region".