Sleiman lauds democratic shift in region

The shift to democracy witnessed in the region facilitates interaction among countries on the basis of equality, according to President Michel Sleiman who met a number of visitors at his Baabda palace on Saturday. The new Board of Directors at Antonine University headed by Father Germanos Germanos visited Sleiman and discussed with him the importance of education in nourishing the spirit of openess and collaboration, a thing which distinguishes Lebanon. MP Amine Wehbe reviewed with the President political developments both domestically and regionally. Former Ministers Tarek Mitri and Mona Ofeish were also guests at Baabda Palace today. Municipalities of Beit Lehem and Mayrouba established connection and cooperation with the visit of Beit Lehem Mayor Victor Battariseh to Lebanon, who revealed to Sleiman the work that both municipalities have done so far. Battariseh also relayed to the President the sad state of affairs in Beit Lehem, whose inhabitants were continuously forced to leave due to the harsh siege imposed upon them. Jeita Grotto has attracted much publicity recently as it was nominated to be one of the seven wonders of nature. With the vote still going strong, all Lebanese were called upon to support their homeland by voting for this beautiful work of nature. Joe Khoury, Joseph Sharbine and Habib Hadad also gained fame when they discovered a 250 meter long tunnel extension to Jeita. The President congratulated them on their discovery and granted them the presidential coat-of-arms in appreciation of their work.