Baabda: Druze Sheikh Al-Aql, Dr. Sami Abi Al-Mona, participated in welcoming Pope Leo XIV at Baabda Palace today. This event was organized at the invitation of President General Joseph Aoun and attended by state officials, former presidents, heads of Islamic and Christian sects, cabinet ministers, deputies, ambassadors, and national figures. The attendees listened to speeches delivered by Pope Leo XIV and President Aoun.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Druze Sheikh Al-Aql expressed his thoughts during a TV interview with LBC channel from his home in Chanay. He spoke of the joy, hope, and expectation surrounding this significant moment in Lebanon's history, acknowledging the country's challenging circumstances. He emphasized the importance of understanding the Pope's message for Lebanese unity and dialogue, urging all Lebanese to come together to discuss and address the nation's interests and needs.
Sheikh Al-Aql highlighted the significance of the Pope's visit as a reminder to influential countries that Lebanon is a global treasure, rich in culture and coexistence. He stressed that Lebanon's diverse spiritual and cultural landscape must be preserved and protected, promoting it as a destination for the world and the Arab region.
He further elaborated on the role of 'Druze Dar El-Taefa' in fostering dialogue, emphasizing that Lebanon's existence depends on it. He asserted that dialogue is not only the Druze Unitarians' demand but a collective responsibility of all communities in Lebanon.
Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Al-Aql called for unity and cooperative efforts to save Lebanon. He encouraged the Lebanese people to remain hopeful, asserting that Lebanon must remain resilient and undivided, fulfilling its global and humanitarian role despite any challenges it faces.