NNA - President Michel Sleiman urged all sides in Lebanon, with no exception, to take a courageous stand and adopt a responsible national decision, away from all foreign and regional interests.


In a special televised word to the Lebanese on Saturday evening, Sleiman called for focusing on internal national interests, agreeing on a uniting government and meeting around a national dialogue table, with no prior conditions. He stressed on the need to come together, in a bid to prevent plots of strife, division and renewed fighting in the country.


"Lebanon's assassination is a blow to the idea of coexistence between religious groups and sects, and threatens the diverse world's security," said Sleiman.


The President called on all military and security authorities to demonstrate highest degrees of alertness in tracking down terrorists and those tampering with the country's security and citizens' safety. He also urged citizens to practice calmness and remain united through a spirit of solidarity and courage in such difficult times; while trusting in and cooperating with security authorities.


Addressing politicians and authority figures in the country, Sleiman urged them to practice tranquility and balance in their political speech, so as to ensure bringing all sides back to committing to "Baabda Declaration" constants. He also called on media resources to partake in sharing national responsibility in this respect.


================= R.Sh.