The Deputy President of the Lebanese Forces Party, MP Georges Adwan, stated in an interview with "Lebanon Al-Hurr" that "the visit of Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi to the Mountain tomorrow is part of strengthening relations among the components of the Mountain and within the stable path initiated by the historic reconciliation between the Druze and Christians, which was established by the late Cardinal Nasrallah Sfeir and Walid Jumblatt." He said, "Everyone knows that since this reconciliation was established, the Mountain has moved to a state of living together with mutual respect and true partnership. This is the path that Cardinal Sfeir began and is being solidified today with this visit by Patriarch Al-Rahi."
He considered that "the main celebration will take place during the Mass that Patriarch Al-Rahi will lead at the Maronite Archdiocese in Beiteddine on the occasion of the Feast of Our Lady of Salvation, which is a historic feast in Beiteddine. It is only natural that there be an official and popular participation from the Forces in the Mass, as Patriarch Al-Rahi is visiting his parish and home."
Adwan confirmed that "the talk of discrepancies between Bkerke and the Forces is not accurate or correct," pointing out that "Patriarch Al-Rahi’s words were misinterpreted. He called for respecting the constitution, which calls for electing a president in a session and successive rounds, and this is the fixed position of the Forces that we adhere to." He said, "In his talk about the precise respect for the constitution, Patriarch Al-Rahi discussed and explained the components of dialogue if it were to occur. However, he did not link the election that must happen as soon as possible to the dialogue. Therefore, I believe that there is an attempt to interpret the patriarch's position incorrectly, and the coming days will prove that some tried to give his position a dimension that does not exist. We and the patriarch share an understanding, coordination, and a truly solid relationship free from any blemishes."
Adwan pointed out that "this visit is an opportunity to remember what Cardinal Sfeir affirmed to all the people of the Mountain, that the homeland is in good shape when we, as Lebanese, work hand in hand to live together with dignity and to preserve our country with pride and dignity." He affirmed that "when the Lebanese are united, the gates of hell cannot prevail against them, especially when the people of the Mountain are united and understanding as they are today, Lebanon's independence is safeguarded. Today, our hands are linked together to preserve our country, its sovereignty, and the establishment of a state that is currently going through a very difficult phase requiring us to cooperate, and we thank God that we are as we are in the Mountain and continue to be so."
He clarified that "the visit has two aims: the first is symbolic and relates to the relationship between the Druze and the Christians, and secondly, it is essentially a visit to the Sheikh of the Druze community, starting from him and then in Baakleen, including a lunch at Mukhtara and a Mass at the diocese. It does not have the character of official visits but is based on an invitation from Sheikh Abu Al-Muna to Patriarch Al-Rahi, who responded to this invitation, and we should not introduce narrow details into it as it is greater than such details."
Adwan confirmed that "the relationship between the Lebanese Forces and the Progressive Socialist Party is stronger than ever, and with the election of MP Taymour Jumblatt as the party's president, this relationship is further solidified day by day. We assure everyone that communication is ongoing, and all topics are discussed between us."
