Lebanon commemorated on Tuesday its 68th independence anniversary, marking the liberation from the French Mandate.

Lebanon commemorated on Tuesday its 68th independence anniversary in downtown Beirut, marking the liberation from the French Mandate which was exercised over Lebanese soil for over 23 years.

President Michel Suleiman, Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Miqati headed the officials that joined the celebrations marking the country’s independence.

Defense Minister Fayez Ghosn, Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji, Brazilian Vice-President Michel Tamer and a number of politicians and security figures attended the military parade which was held at Shafiq al-Wazzan Boulevard in Downtown Beirut.

Suleiman placed a wreath on the monument of the Unknown Soldier.

At the end of the parade, the president, PM and speaker headed to the Baabda palace to receive congratulators.

Lebanon received its independence after French troops arrested Lebanese national leaders Beshara al-Khoury, Riad al-Solh, Pierre Gemayel, Camille Chamoun, and Adel Osseiran in Rashaya Castle.

After national and international pressure, the prisoners were released on November 22, 1943 and that day was declared the Lebanese Independence Day.

On Monday, Suleiman addressed the nation urging the Lebanese to maintain national unity and civil peace.