New Maronite Patriarch draws up a plan to unite Christian factions of LebanonMarch 21, 2011 - 11:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai said the patriarchate has drawn up a plan to unite Christian factions of Lebanon based on his policy of “love and partnership,” which he said would be the slogan of his tenure as the head of the church. The election of Rai, who is known for his academic credentials and experience, comes at critical time in Lebanese politics and particularly for the divided Christian community. Rai, who was elected patriarch last week, is widely believed to enjoy the backing of the Vatican in a bid to modernize and institutionalize the Maronite Church. “There is a plan to unite Christians, a plan whose foundations were laid during the electoral rounds of the synod of Maronite bishops. The plan addresses the church and people’s needs as well as internal unity and the needs of Christians in Lebanon, the Middle East and the diaspora,” Rai said in a radio interview. The new patriarch added that state officials should assume the responsibility of managing everyday politics, while stressing they would be held accountable for “principles rather than details.” “Contacts with politicians will take place away from the media, and follow-up on issues will happen through certain figures,” Rai said, The Daily Star reported. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Narek Manasyan wins European Boxing Championships silver for Armenia Armenia’s Narek Manasyan (92kg) won Armenia’s second silver medal at the European Boxing Championships 2024 on April 28. Blinken urges Azerbaijan to continue negotiations with Armenia Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has urged Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to continue negotiations with Armenia. Pashinyan, Blinken talk Armenia-U.S. ties over the phone Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on April 28, Pashinyan’s office reports. Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. |