Beirut: President of the Republic of Lebanon, General Joseph Aoun, delivered a powerful address on the occasion of Lebanon's Independence Day, highlighting the critical need for national unity and the restoration of state sovereignty. Standing in South Lebanon, a region symbolic of resilience and historical challenges, Aoun emphasized that true independence begins with confronting the truth of Lebanon's current circumstances.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Aoun acknowledged the sacrifices made by countless Lebanese who have given their lives for the country's independence. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the 22nd of November 1943, whose legacy he urged the nation not to forget. Aoun stressed that Lebanon's independence is not merely a chapter from the past but a living reality that must be upheld and protected.
In his address, Aoun reflected on the historical and ongoing challenges Lebanon has faced in maintaining its sovereignty. He criticized past foreign influences and internal conflicts that have hindered Lebanon's independence. Aoun called upon all Lebanese citizens to pledge allegiance to Lebanon, emphasizing the need for a unified state authority and the rejection of any form of foreign tutelage or internal division.
Aoun highlighted the importance of the Lebanese Army in maintaining national security, particularly in the South, and expressed Lebanon's readiness to negotiate for a permanent end to transborder aggressions. He urged the international community to support Lebanon through oversight and assistance in reconstruction efforts, ensuring that all arms are under state control.
In a forward-looking message, Aoun announced an upcoming historic national event, the visit of Pope Leo XIV, symbolizing Lebanon's commitment to peace and stability. He underscored Lebanon's readiness to engage in regional peace efforts, particularly in relation to Palestine, and reaffirmed Lebanon's dedication to conducting its affairs with independent will, focusing solely on the interests of its people.
President Aoun concluded his speech by calling for unity among all Lebanese, emphasizing the nation's collective responsibility to protect and nurture Lebanon's independence and sovereignty. He envisioned a Lebanon that embraces dialogue, modernity, freedom, tolerance, and peace, united under the national flag and symbolized by the proud cedar tree.