Source: Kataeb.org
The official website of the Kataeb Party leader
Monday 20 January 2025 16:07:21
President Joseph Aoun has underscored the critical need for Lebanon’s citizens to unite in order to rebuild the country, stressing that such a task is not impossible when intentions are aligned.
Aoun’s remarks were made during a meeting at Baabda Palace with a distinguished delegation, which included Catholicos Aram I of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Patriarch Mar Ignatius Joseph III Yonan of the Syriac Catholic Church, and Catholicos Raphael Pedros XXI Minassian, Patriarch of the Armenian Catholic Church of Cilicia.
The Lebanese president emphasized the urgency of forming a government that truly reflects the aspirations of the Lebanese people and helps guide the nation toward economic recovery.
“We must unite to rebuild the country. This is not a difficult task if our intentions are pure and sincere,” Aoun stated, as he further highlighted that the prompt formation of a government would send a strong, positive message to the international community, signaling that Lebanon is finally on the right path.
President Aoun also stressed that the responsibility for Lebanon’s future falls on the shoulders of all its citizens.
"Everyone must be up to the responsibility," he said firmly.
"Those who cannot shoulder this responsibility should not hold positions of power," he said, emphasizing that Lebanon’s revival requires the collective effort of all sectors of society for the greater good.
The president pointed out that Lebanon’s growth depends on the participation of all citizens, regardless of sectarian affiliation.
“We are at a crossroads. While we face many opportunities, it is up to us to decide whether we will seize them or let them slip away,” he said, reiterating the crucial importance of national unity.
"If we do not act, we will have to bear the consequences of our inaction," Aoun warned.
The president also highlighted the positive signals Lebanon has received from abroad, stressing that it is essential for the country to reciprocate these gestures with constructive actions.
“We have received many positive messages and invitations from abroad, and in return, we must send positive signals as well. Hopefully, this will culminate in the formation of a government that meets the expectations of the Lebanese people and allows the country to recover, particularly on the economic front.”
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Aoun admitted that the task is difficult but not impossible.
"This requires the concerted efforts of all Lebanese people—political parties, civil society, and religious communities—to rebuild the country," he said.
He also emphasized the necessity of collective action, stating that a single hand cannot clap and that the president cannot achieve this alone.
"The president cannot work alone. A single hand cannot clap," he said.
Aoun went on to explain that his inaugural speech was not meant as a mere formality but as a call to action, one that should be implemented to bring about tangible change.
“The more we implement it, the better we will achieve for society,” he affirmed.
He also elaborated on the intention behind his speech, explaining that while there are many priorities, the speech was not written based on sentiments alone.
“It was written in the language of the people and meant to reflect their suffering. I did not address what is beyond reality. I described the reality that needs to be addressed, and we are ready for that, provided that efforts are joined for the common good and not for personal interests," he said.
In conclusion, Aoun called on all Lebanese to unite for the greater good and to take responsibility for the future of their nation, emphasizing that this collective effort will help Lebanon navigate its current challenges and rebuild the country.