Beirut  -The European Commission has pledged 4 million euros (5.1 million dollars) to ensure that Lebanon's parliamentary elections, due in June, proceed in a democratic way, a statement by the EU said on Monday.

According to the statement "the money will cover technical assistance as well as the purchase of equipment needed for the June 7 elections."

The announcement coincided with the arrival of the European Union's commissioner for external relations, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, to Lebanon for a two-day visit, during which she will meet Lebanese officials.

Ferrero-Waldner ahead of her visit said that the EU was ready to send observers to Lebanon to ensure the election is done in a democratic way.

The election race is expected to be a tight one between the Western-backed anti-Syrian majority, headed by Saad Hariri, and the pro-Syrian Hezbollah-led opposition. dpa