Patriarch Raï: I Called for an International Conference Specifically for Lebanon

Maronite Patriarch Beshara Raï revealed in a speech delivered during the launch of the document "Meeting on Identity and Sovereignty" titled "A New Vision for the Lebanon of Tomorrow: A Civil, Decentralized, Neutral State," that he "called for an international conference for Lebanon after Lebanese politicians fled from dialogue because they are beholden to their own interests." The Patriarch expressed his "doubts about the politicians' sincerity towards the country," affirming that "when officials flee from dialogue, it is because each one of them has their own interest and does not want to sacrifice it." He indicated that there is "no salvation for Lebanon if we remain as we are," highlighting that "Lebanon is sick and officials do not want to treat its illness or understand its cause." Raï pointed out that "officials have no right to destroy a country and its people by destroying the system and the constitution," reiterating his rejection of political activity leading to destruction and ruin. For his part, the representative of the Druze community leader, Sheikh Sami Abdul Khalek, stated that "Lebanese people must work for the interest of the homeland, not for the interest of sects and parties." Meanwhile, the head of the "Meeting on Identity and Sovereignty," former Minister Youssef Salameh, listed the main points of the document. Bishop Samir Mazloum expressed his "sorrow that there are those who have killed the state to inherit it."