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Presidents Amin
Gemayel, Michel Suleiman, and Fuad Siniora, in a meeting, held in Bickfaya, discussed
the catastrophic situation in Lebanon following the relentless Israeli
aggression that maliciously sowed death and destruction from north to south, from Békaa to the coast.
This relentless
aggression left thousands dead and wounded and more than a million internally
displaced. All this comes amidst political stalemate and tremendous economic
and financial hardships which unabated heralds further deterioration in social
and humanitarian conditions as well as security concerns.
The three former
officials conveyed their sincere condolences to the Lebanese people and the
families of the fallen martyrs and innocent victims, and extend their heartfelt
wishes to the wounded for a full and speedy recovery. They also expressed
gratitude to the Lebanese communities sheltering the displaced in their midst
until their safe and dignified return, with utmost respect of all concerned for
private property and the continued freedom of expression and free honest and
responsible media.
Additionally,
they expressed full appreciation of the Eminences, Beatitudes, and Spiritual
leaders meeting in Bkerké Wednesday October the 16th of their highly
regarded and responsible statement on the scale of the crisis and the
suggestions they put forward to mitigate it.
The
presidents also praised the acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati for rejecting
Iranian hegemony and interference while affirming Lebanese sovereignty.
They
reiterated that it is necessary to strengthen national unity and prevent civil
unrest, but more urgently to save Lebanon without any delay, by immediately
terminating Israel’s indiscriminate aggression.
To
this end, the presidents call to action on five fronts:
1. An immediate cease-fire and strict implementation of
Security Council Resolution 1701 while respecting the sovereignty of Lebanon as
well as supporting the efforts of the acting Prime Minister, and the Speaker of
the Parliament, and the efforts of the Arab and International States and Institutions.
2. Elect a president without delay and without any preconditions,
who can enjoy the trust of the Parliament and Lebanese People alike to reconstitute
an independent and credible governance, whereby the State of Lebanon will have
the exclusive power over all its Lands and Borders and Institutions without any
foreign interference.
3. The formation of a Salvation Government to rebuild the
State of Lebanon and ensure the help of friendly Arab Countries and
International Institutions to jumpstart the economy and to carry on the reconstruction
process in the aftermath of the Israeli carnage.
4. To reinforce the Lebanese State authority throughout
Lebanon in accordance with UN Resolutions, Arab league decrees, the Baabda Declaration,
and the good and full implementation of the Taëf accords.
5. Implement financial, economic, and administrative
reforms conforming with the principles of good and proper transparency,
meritocracy, disclosure and governance.
In conclusion, the three presidents expressed
confidence that in their unity the Lebanese shall overcome aggression and
occupation, and will rebuild Lebanon with the help of their Arab brethren and
friends.
Amine Gemayel Michel
Suleiman Fuad Siniora
Bickfaya, October 23rd, 2024
A Guiding Character For Arab Democracy
