“Lebanon Debate”
Representative Camille Chamoun from the Patriarchal edifice in Bkerke stressed the rejection of any insult directed at the Patriarch or the spiritual shrines, stressing that the recent offensive statements are “completely rejected and cannot be justified in any way.”
Chamoun said that the visit to Bkerke came “for several reasons, most notably standing by the patriarchal edifice in the face of the obscene words directed at him and the Maronite community in general,” noting that “the Maronites consider themselves directly concerned with any attack on the position of the Patriarch.”
He added, “This edifice is sacred, and it is a red line for most Lebanese, especially Christians,” pointing out that the visit falls within the framework of “a stand of solidarity, as did others who had previously visited Bkerke and confirmed the same position.”
Chamoun affirmed his refusal “to direct any insult from any party to the other,” saying: “Just as we refuse for members of our sect to issue any offensive words towards the rest of the sects, we also refuse for any insults to be directed at us, especially when they relate to Bkerke.”
He continued: “If it had not been in Bkerke, Greater Lebanon would not have been born, and the various sects would not have joined this project,” considering that “the Lebanese project is sacred, and it must be preserved regardless of the challenges.”
He pointed out that the discussion about developing the political system remains legitimate, whether through decentralization, federalism, or any other formula, “but within the framework of one state and coexistence,” adding: “We are continuing this project, and we adhere to the formula of coexistence.”
He concluded by saying that “calm language and mutual respect are the basis,” warning that “any slide toward division threatens the Lebanon we know,” stressing that “unity is the only way to build and preserve the country.”
