Lebanon celebrates 54th anniversary of independence
Lebanon, Local, 11/24/1997

Lebanon on Saturday celebrated its 54th independence anniversary with a parade of the country's armed forces and calls for reform and liberation.

President Elias Hrawi outlined in a speech on the eve of Independence Day spelled out Lebanon's goals for the coming year: liberating south Lebanon from Israeli occupation and strengthening national unity.

Hrawi also stressed in his televised speech Friday evening the importance of breathing new life into Lebanese society and administration, following the 1975-90 civil war. "Independence isn't only limited to the liberation from outsiders. It is successfully accomplished in building a powerful, strong, united and effective government," he said

"Let us... commit ourselves to a comprehensive reform program for the government, society and all sectors," he said. He also called on politicians to let go of the past and concentrate on "ushering the country into the next century."

Hrawi called for a reformed public administration, adding democracy should not be "a cover for corruption."

Finally, Hrawi promised to resolve the issue of the displaced before dealing with the developments in the Middle East region.

Earlier this week on Flag Day, Lebanese Army Commander Gen. Emile Lahoud praised his soldiers for their resistance to Israeli occupation.

"You were always up to your responsibilities and a source of national pride," Lahoud said in his order of the day.

He also paid tribute to six Lebanese soldiers killed in south Lebanon this year in an Israeli rocket attack.

Previous Stories:
  Britain voices support for Lebanon   (11/21/1997)
  Hrawi stresses national unity - meets Azerbaijan's Hasanov   (11/21/1997)
  Independence Day in Lebanon   (11/21/1997)

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