Suleiman to Lebanese Army: You, along with Resistance Able to be Victorious

Lebanese President Michel Suleiman praised the Lebanese army for “preserving the freedom of demonstration and expression, confronting Israel in 2006, and battling terrorism during the Nahr al-Bared clashes”.

Marking the 66th anniversary of the Lebanese army, President Suleiman said the Zionist entity “tried again this morning to renew its aggression in the south and the army confronted it”, referring to the incident which took place on Monday morning when Israeli occupation soldiers crossed the border with Lebanon causing exchange of fire.

“You were brave, and you confronted Israeli aggression during the 2006 July War. You, along with the Resistance, were able to be victorious”.

The Army Day celebration,which included a military parade, took place at the Shukri Ghanem barracks in Fayyadiyeh and was attended by Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Najib Miqati and other high ranking officials led by Army Commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji.

MARITIME RIGHTS
On the other hand, Suleiman assured that Lebanon would not abandon its rights including the maritime rights.
“We should actively work on drawing and protecting our maritime borders”.
“We stress on our right to regain control of all our territories through legal means”.

DIALOGUE
The Lebanese President stressed on the importance of the dialogue noting that politicians should adopt a calm rhetoric.
“The national dialogue not only seeks to solve lingering differences but to avoid clashes and safeguard stability”.
“Political leaders have to work hard to calm political rhetoric”, Suleiman added.

The Lebanese President also stressed that “there is a need for a balanced representation through the adoption of a new, modern and just electoral law. Proportionality is an option that could be adopted by all Lebanese”.

He also reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to resolution 1701, and condemned the attack which targeted UNIFIL forces in Sidon last week.