Caretaker Prime Minister, Hassan Diab, issued the following statement:
This year, the Army Day is marred by national, social and living concerns. The Lebanese Army has patiently and responsibly carried great burdens, and faced challenges with wisdom, firmness and determination. The soldiers, officers, and command showed a high degree of national responsibility. They did not fail to perform their duty, nor have they been reluctant to protect the homeland and make more sacrifices.
Thus, it is our hope that the Army remains an inclusive national institution whose mission should not be disrupted by sectarian, confessional and partisan calculations, nor by personal interests, away from widespread corruption which has become a doctrine that undermines the state and its institutions, and threatens Lebanon.
On Army Day, we draw inspiration from its sacrifices to preserve stability and national unity, hoping that Lebanon will bounce back and emerge from this severe ordeal, and that the Lebanese people will escape the constraints that bind their future.
I congratulate the Army on its Day, and the Lebanese for having an army that is loyal to the country and its citizens.
Source: National News Agency