Baabda: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, affirmed that the visit of Holy Father Pope Leo XIV was not only for the Church of Lebanon or for the Lebanese, but for all Christians of the East who are the sons of this land in which they are deeply entrenched. President Aoun received a delegation from the Middle East Council of Churches at Baabda Palace, urging them to ensure an active Christian presence in the East, influential in serving humanity.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun emphasized the council's essential role in making the Christian presence purposeful, which he believes will further entrench Christians in their regions. He reiterated the importance of preserving human freedom and dignity as a sacred right, a point he has previously highlighted in his speeches at the United Nations and during Pope Leo XIV's visit.
Baabda Palace also hosted a series of meetings focusing on parliamentary and educational matters. President Aoun met with MP Mark Daou, who congratulated him on the appointment of former Ambassador Simon Karam as head of the Lebanese delegation to the negotiations, underscoring the commitment to pursue diplomatic avenues for Lebanon's protection.
In another meeting, Beirut MP Hagop Terzian presented an engineering study aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Ashrafieh. Discussions with President Aoun also covered the general situation in the country amid recent developments. Additionally, President Aoun engaged with Dr. Fadlo Khuri, President of the American University of Beirut, to review the challenges facing universities in Lebanon.
Furthermore, President Aoun honored Dr. Michel Afram, General Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Lebanese Agricultural Research Institute, by awarding him the National Order of the Cedar, Knight rank. This recognition was in acknowledgment of Dr. Afram's professional integrity and his efforts to modernize Lebanon's agricultural sector. Dr. Afram expressed gratitude for the honor, affirming his continued commitment to the principles guiding his professional journey.
