Peace and unity

The contents of this volume represent a vision, not only of one man but of all who cherish the ideals of freedom, democracy, peace and harmonious coexistence. These, the major speeches of President Amine Gemayel during his first year and a half in office, shed much light on the oft-misunderstood causes behind the nine-year conflict in Lebanon, and help. us to appreciate the gargantuan task that faced the new President. They also evoke the remarkable resilience of the Lebanese people, an innate characteristic which has enabled them to maintain their optimism throughout the most difficult and dangerous times. Lebanon's terrible ordeal will no doubt come to an end as all her ordeals have done throughout her history. Her people have set an example to the world in their determination to uphold democratic principles - Lebanon is perhaps the only true democracy in the Middle East - and to endure as an independent nation embracing widely varying cultural and religious persuasions. These qualities are vividly depicted in the speeches of their President, two elements of which stand out above all others: his boundless faith in Lebanon, and his genuine search for peace. Some of the speeches were given in English, but the majority have been translated from the Arabic original. Together they form an eloquent testimony to the integrity of President Gemayel; they show also an admirable preference for plain speaking and a noteworthy adherence to the truth. They were delivered to a wide variety of audiences the world over, and consequently touch upon a diversity of subjects and issues. Some of them, in view of subsequent events, have a truly prophetic ring. -- Jacket.