Suleiman on Independence Eve: For Adhering to Int'l Legitimacy, STL

President Michel Suleiman on Monday called for “adhering to international legitimacy” and honoring Lebanon’s commitments towards the U.N.-backed Special Tribunal for Lebanon.

In a televised address to the nation on the 68th anniversary of Lebanon’s independence, Suleiman said “there is a duty to adhere to international legitimacy, including to the STL, for the sake of justice rather than out of fear of sanctions.”

“The best path towards independence lies in our national charter and in our total allegiance to our homeland,” he added.

“Liberation from any foreign mandate, occupation or hegemony is the most prominent condition for independence, in addition to extending the state’s authority over its entire territory, the sovereignty of the national decision and the state’s success in running the public affairs,” the president noted.

Suleiman pointed out that “it is the first time since 1975 during which no enemy or brotherly forces exist on Lebanese soil.”

He added, however, that the country is “still in need for the presence of the U.N. forces (in southern Lebanon), in coordination with the army, which is the institution that reflects national unity in its most glorious image.”

Addressing the Lebanese people, Suleiman said: “I know that you are worried over the inability of the state and its institutions to undertake their responsibilities across the country and over the threats of (a possible) civil strife and resorting to arms.”

“But this bitter situation should not lead to despair over the possibility of achieving reforms and progress, and we are a people reputed for its courage and intellectual and political dynamism.”

Suleiman called for “in-depth and comprehensive dialogue, inside state institutions,” adding that he still believes in “the usefulness of dialogue.”

“At a time Israel is still occupying parts of our land, everyone knows that we have a right to resist and safeguard our territory. As the Lebanese show awareness of what is happening around them, they are still committed to any reformative step and just Arab cause, topped by the cause of Palestine,” the president stressed.