NNA - "The Kataeb is Lebanon's conscience and its shield. It does not compromise nor surrender. It is a democratic institution that existed before the war, resisted during its period and will build Lebanon after the war. It sacrificed itself for Lebanon," affirmed Kataeb Party leader, MP Sami Gemayel, on Saturday.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Lebanese resistance on April 13, Gemayel spoke at an event held at the Chiyah Municipal Stadium in Ain el-Rummaneh this afternoon, where he called on the Lebanese to turn a new page, saying, "It is our duty to protect each other and our country. It is our duty to place ourselves under the umbrella of the state, to open a new page, and to keep pace with the path of renewal taking place at the level of the government and the President of the Republic."

He added, "The world is looking to help us after we assume our responsibilities. This is a historic opportunity to build a country for our people and for future generations."

Gemayel considered that the time has come for a "frank session" on the means of disarmament, saying, "We are not prepared to discuss the feasibility of handing over weapons, because the matter is stipulated in the constitution, the law, and international agreements, and the matter is settled. We are not prepared to engage in dialogue on the issue. The only discussion required between the state, led by President Joseph Aoun, and the government, is to directly address Hezbollah regarding the method and not the principle of disarmament."

"The presence of illegal weapons was the basis for the outbreak of war, and it is time for us to learn that only the state can protect and provide security for our children," Gemayel underlined.

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