By Roy Lie A Tjam.
The Embassy of Lebanon celebrated the country’s National Day at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in The Hague on 23 November 2015.
Ambassadors, diplomats and many Dutch officials as well as representatives of the International Organizations, Tribunals, and Institutions in the Hague turned out in numbers to join the Embassy’s outstanding Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Ms. Abir Ali, in celebrating the occasion.
The room that was beautifully decorated with red and white flowers symbolizing the colors of the Lebanese flag hosted scores of guests from the Lebanese community and the Dutch social, academic and cultural circles and many others who made their way to the Crowne Plaza to enjoy the occasion. Guests savored the exquisite taste of the delicious Lebanese food that was offered at the reception.
For a complete set of pictures by our photographer Hester Dijkstra, please open the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157660908721499
For the occasion, Ms. Ali sent out a very powerful message about her country. The full text of the message follows below.
Message from the Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of The Embassy of Lebanon, Abir Ali on the occasion of the National Day of Lebanon:
“When we celebrate the National Day of Lebanon, we celebrate the values on which Lebanon is founded. We celebrate freedom of belief, freedom of expression, and respect for one another”.
“We celebrate the values of tolerance, diversity, and openness which are synonymous with the Lebanese people. Lebanon, the land where all the persecuted minorities of the Middle East found safe haven, is a bastion against extremism and all the dark forces of evil.”
“Despite the bleak situation, Lebanon remains an inspiring model of cultural diversity that will never give in to radicalism and violence and will remain a beacon of hope for moderation and pluralism.”
