Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel on Monday urged Lebanese citizens to turn out in large numbers during Pope Leo XIV’s visit, calling on them to send a clear and unified message that Lebanon is seeking peace, stability, and a state free from conflict and armed groups.

In a video message aired by Al-Jadeed TV, Gemayel appealed to Lebanese “from every sect” to line the Pope’s route and gather at the designated locations, saying their presence would signal a collective commitment to rebuilding a country that belongs to all its people.

“The Pope’s visit is an important moment for all of us. It’s a historic occasion,” Gemayel said. “We want to send a message of love and peace; a message that we want Lebanon to be a home for all its sons and daughters, a stable nation living in peace, a real state far from conflict, weapons, destruction, killing, and bloodshed.”

He said the world needs to hear that “Lebanon wants to live,” describing the country as “the homeland of life” and noting that the Pope brings with him a universal message of peace, openness, and compassion.

Gemayel urged Lebanese not to miss the chance to show unity and reaffirm their commitment to the country’s future.

“Your strong presence on the streets is crucial for us, for the country, and for the future of our children,” he said, emphasizing that a large turnout would demonstrate that the Lebanese people stand for peace and reject the cycles of violence that have shaped their political landscape for decades.

“We hope this year marks the end of Lebanon’s sorrows so we can start building the most beautiful country in the world,” Gemayel concluded.