The Saudi ambassador Walid Bukhari accepted the invitation of businessman Muhammad Adeeb to a celebratory lunch in his honor at the "Miramar" resort in Tripoli. The event was attended by the ambassadors of Tunisia, Jordan, Algeria, Morocco, and Yemen, as well as several Lebanese officials including MPs and other notable figures.
The event began with an introductory speech by journalist Nabil Rafii, followed by a word from Adeeb who welcomed the "dear guest," saying: "Tripoli is happy to welcome you today, and it loves you and welcomes you as a dear brother representing a country like a shield protecting the nation from harm and seeking to safeguard the interests of Arabs." He expressed hopes for the continued prosperity of Saudi Arabia and its leadership.
Rifi congratulated the Lebanese in general and Muslims, in particular, on the occasion of the Prophet's birthday. He stated: "During crises, the test of friendship and brotherhood becomes a reality, and among the forefront of friends of Lebanon who have passed all tests is Saudi Arabia and some other sister Arab countries."
He added: "Your Excellency Ambassador Walid Bukhari, your presence among us in the north is an act of love and faith in Lebanon and its future. I hope this honoring today befits what represents Saudi Arabia, which remains eternal alongside Lebanon and its people who yearn for the return of their Arab brothers to Beirut, the capital of Arab convergence." He emphasized that Beirut will remain Arab and that the new guardians' delusions of continued guardianship shall confront the truths of geography and history.
Rifi asserted: "We do not say this except in the belief that the end of guardianship is near. Look at those who oppressed their people, how their peoples rise against their tyranny. The torch of freedom has ignited, and there is no place now for those who hold back the future of the people and their generations." He called for a national confrontation to elect a president who believes in the constitution and works to safeguard Lebanon's sovereignty and implement economic reforms.
He emphasized the essential role of Sunni Muslims in Lebanon, stating that they constitute a fundamental component of the nation and that their presence in the Lebanese equation is not linked to temporary circumstances or individual leadership but is a strength that does not succumb to intimidation.
Bukhari, in his speech, emphasized: "The goal of Saudi Arabia is for Lebanon to remain united in heart and hand in the service of its prosperity, away from any interference, as the strength and resilience of Lebanon come solely from within." He reiterated the Saudi diplomatic mission's goals for sustainable international support to maintain Lebanon's security and stability.
He concluded with gratitude for the people of Tripoli, affirming the close ties and shared affection between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, particularly for northern Lebanon.
