President Michel Suleiman stressed on Sunday the need to devise a national defense strategy for Lebanon, while emphasizing that he seeks to hold the presidential elections on time.
He said: “The defense strategy should adhere to the army and the state.”
He made his remarks after attending a Sunday mass that commemorated the hundredth anniversary of the death of Saint Rafqa, which was held in the region of Jrabta.
Commenting on the presidential elections, Suleiman told reporters: “I am exerting all possible efforts to stage the presidential elections on time.”
“Suleiman: I seek to exercise democracy and portray Lebanon as democratic country at a time when Arab countries are aspiring to reach such a goal,” continued the president after the mass that was led by Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi.
The next president should base his actions on the constitution, he stressed.
“These actions should protect Lebanon and its sovereignty,” added Suleiman.
Al-Rahi meanwhile hoped during the sermon that all concerned parties would respond to Suleiman’s call to resume the national dialogue.
The presidential elections are set for May when Suleiman’s six-year term ends.
The president called on Friday for the resumption of the national dialogue on March 31 in order to continue discussions on a defense strategy.
Naharnet
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