Free Patriotic Movement leader, MP Gebran Bassil, called for preserving Lebanon’s unity, strengthening agricultural and productive sectors, and safeguarding the rights of the Lebanese diaspora during a speech in Qab Elias, Zahle.
Speaking at a gathering in the town’s Our Lady Church hall, Bassil stressed the need to "hold on to one united Lebanon" and reject partition scenarios seen in neighboring countries, describing diversity as a source of national strength. He also underscored the importance of maintaining balance between resident Lebanese and those living abroad.
Bassil criticized decades of financial and banking policies that he said turned Lebanon into a consumer economy reliant on high-interest returns rather than productive work. He warned against repeating past monetary practices under new labels, referencing former central bank governor Riad Salameh and alleging political complicity in the financial collapse.
He said the Free Patriotic Movement had warned of the looming crisis while in government, pointing to a 2019 press conference by then-economy minister Mansour Bteish outlining financial risks.
Highlighting the resilience of Lebanese expatriates, Bassil argued that "the state has failed, not the people," and renewed his call for implementing a law allowing descendants of Lebanese emigrants to reclaim citizenship. He concluded by emphasizing the party’s support for family representation and rejection of political exclusion.
Speaking at a gathering in the town’s Our Lady Church hall, Bassil stressed the need to "hold on to one united Lebanon" and reject partition scenarios seen in neighboring countries, describing diversity as a source of national strength. He also underscored the importance of maintaining balance between resident Lebanese and those living abroad.
Bassil criticized decades of financial and banking policies that he said turned Lebanon into a consumer economy reliant on high-interest returns rather than productive work. He warned against repeating past monetary practices under new labels, referencing former central bank governor Riad Salameh and alleging political complicity in the financial collapse.
He said the Free Patriotic Movement had warned of the looming crisis while in government, pointing to a 2019 press conference by then-economy minister Mansour Bteish outlining financial risks.
Highlighting the resilience of Lebanese expatriates, Bassil argued that "the state has failed, not the people," and renewed his call for implementing a law allowing descendants of Lebanese emigrants to reclaim citizenship. He concluded by emphasizing the party’s support for family representation and rejection of political exclusion.
