Harb: concede political, factional, personal interests for Lebanon's sake

Member of Parliament, Boutros Harb, said that Lebanon is heading towards critical stops in which all Lebanese, expatriates and residents, should unite and rise above all individual interests for Lebanon's sake, calling upon them to concede their political, factional and personal interests to preserve the historical bond between Muslims and Christians. Harb, speaking during an honorary dinner held by Lebanese Forces branch in Australia, said that they are concerned in taking Lebanon to a safe shore, pointing out that they work together to achieve principles, not individual interests. "This gathering represents Lebanon's pure image, in Australia as in Lebanon, nothing changes, we live or die together; what is important is that we share that as one family," Harb said. He went on, "the upcoming stage seems full of difficulties and challenges." He pointed out that the (Lebanese) parliament might not be able to pass a law or mechanism that would allow Lebanese Diaspora to participate in 2013 parliamentary elections because "the current government contradicts the national approach and is controlled by the power of arms." However, he promised that after his return to Lebanon, he would interrogate the cabinet for postponing preparations regarding that matter. He added, "if we succeeded (in having a law or mechanism), we would have achieved an accomplishment; and if not, we invite you to prepare yourselves to participate in those elections in Lebanon... to prove that Lebanon will not fall thanks to his free patriots whether in or outside Lebanon." He called upon all the Lebanese to register their children in the Lebanese consulates to preserve their national belonging. Harb also held a meeting in Tannourine Society Center in Sidney where he was welcomed by the society's head, Bchara Younis, and members. Discussions reportedly tackled Lebanese Diaspora affairs and demands, especially their right to have a mechanism that allows them to participate in the elections from the country in which they reside. On the occasion of Eid Fitr, Harb also visited Imam Ali Mosque in Lacamba - Sydney where he was welcomed by Sheikh Yahya Safi, Lebanese Islamic Society head, Samir Dandan, and a number of dignitaries. Harb congratulated Muslims in particular and Christians in Australia and Lebanon calling for "preserving close ties between Lebanese Christian and Muslim family in Lebanon and abroad."