Representative Tony Franjieh stressed that Lebanon was and still is a country of diversity, considering that this diversity constitutes a source of wealth and strength and an essential part of the Lebanese identity.
Franjieh said, during the “Diaspora Sunset Reception 2026” meeting in Ehden, that the Lebanese, despite their differences, share a single vision for Lebanon based on stability, peace, prosperity, and the establishment of a strong, cohesive, and just state capable of protecting its people and creating the future of its generations.
He added: “From here, from Ehden, on the outskirts of the Holy Valley, we confirm that our roots are one, and this will be our future,” asking how the Lebanese want to see their country in 5 years, and pointing out that the answer reveals that what unites the Lebanese is much greater than the immediate differences that divide them.
Franjieh stressed that Lebanon’s true wealth is not limited to its nature, but also lies in the Lebanese themselves, including businessmen, investors, diplomats and youth, and in the relationships and bridges they have built between various sectors at home and abroad.
He stressed that the goal must be to build and strengthen bridges between the residents and the deployed, and between the deployed themselves, as well as between the residents, in a way that strengthens the network of common interests and opportunities for the Lebanese wherever they are.
He continued, “Lebanon is every hospital, every university, every laboratory, every company, every restaurant, and every project at home and abroad,” pointing out that the Lebanese who entered new markets, learned new languages, and built a family and community abroad, at the same time contributed to the renaissance of the countries that hosted him.
Franjieh concluded by stressing that Lebanon is not divided between residents and expatriates, but rather it is one country that includes expatriates and residents, considering that the Lebanese in various parts of the world are linked to Lebanon and to each other not only by affection, but also by common opportunities and interests.
He said: “Lebanon across borders is not only a land, but rather a person, a community, and a family.”
