Concert on the occasion of the 71st Anniversary of Lebanese Independence

Ambassador Najla Assaker-Riachi
Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is really a great pleasure to welcome you this evening to a special concert on the occasion of the 71st Anniversary of Lebanese Independence. My most sincere thanks go to the Permanent Mission of the Lebanese Republic and to Her Excellency Ambassador Najla Assaker-Riachi and to my colleagues in the Staff Council for organizing this vibrant showcase of Lebanese music.

Lebanon is an important partner in the United Nations efforts to promote peace in the Middle East and beyond, and its active engagement and commitment, especially in response to the humanitarian crisis in Syria, is widely appreciated. Despite these challenges, Lebanon strives to foster a peaceful and harmonious coexistence between its many different communities.

The 71st Anniversary of Lebanese Independence is particularly symbolic, as the United Nations has just commenced its 70th Anniversary year. Such milestones are not only marked by celebration of achievements, but also the contemplation of new challenges. When marking anniversaries, we recommit ourselves to future action. United here today, we must recommit ourselves to ensuring peace, to promoting human rights, to building a sustainable world.

Music is one of the mediums that unite us, regardless of our background and tradition. Tonight’s concert reveals the true essence of Lebanon, which is often lost in the media’s narrative of political unrest and conflict. We sense the hospitality and openness of its population, and we are offered a window into their rich cultural heritage.

Before we enjoy the music, I would like once again to express my gratitude to my staff representative colleagues and especially to Ambassador Najla Assaker-Riachi, as well as tonight’s performers, for their collaboration in making this concert possible, and for sharing the beautiful music of Lebanon here with us tonight.

Thank you.