Syriac Catholic Patriarch Younan meets Lebanese President Aoun to offer congratulations and advocate for Syriac representation
BEIRUT — On Monday morning, Syriac Catholic Patriarch Ignatius Youssef III Younan visited President Joseph Aoun at the Baabda Presidential Palace to extend his congratulations on the president’s recent election.
Upon arriving at the palace, Patriarch Younan received a ceremonial welcome, including an honor guard salute by the Presidential Guard Regiment, a customary recognition for distinguished religious leaders. Accompanied by a delegation of bishops, priests, and nuns, he was warmly received by President Aoun.
During their meeting, Patriarch Younan praised President Aoun’s historic inaugural address, which resonated with both Lebanese citizens and the international community. He expressed his full support for the president’s efforts to restore Lebanon’s prosperity and foster progress across all sectors.
Patriarch Younan also emphasized the importance of the Syriac Catholic community as a foundational part of Lebanon’s social and cultural fabric. He advocated for fair representation of Syriac Catholics in government and administrative positions, highlighting their contributions to education, law, and public service in Lebanon.
President Aoun acknowledged the vital role of the Syriac Catholic community in Lebanese society. He reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring equality among all groups in Lebanon, pledging that no community would face marginalization, regardless of its size.
The visit concluded with Patriarch Younan presenting President Aoun with a gilded medallion of Our Lady of Salvation as a gesture of respect and gratitude, marking the significance of this occasion.