Lebanese President Michel Sleiman receiving Nadhmi Auchi

Lebanese President Michel Sleiman received Nadhmi Auchi, President of the Anglo Arab Originisation (AAO) at Baabda Palace in Lebanon

Auchi congratulated the new President, on behalf of AAO members and the Arab community in Britain, who see the election of Sleiman as a turning point in the interest of Lebanon and a source of stability and tranquility for the Lebanese people.

Auch said the election of President Sleiman sends a message to the Arab people informing them that the situation in Lebanon is heading on the right direction, and that the language of dialogue between the politicians has become the only means to reach peace.

"The election of President Michel Sleiman reflects a new phase," said Auchi.

Auchi hailed the inaugural speech given by Sleiman especially the way the new President described the Lebanese expatriates.

"The description of President Sleiman Lebanese expatriate as ‘the second wing of Lebanon’ did not only move their feelings, but also touched the emotions of Arab expatriate living in Lebanon," said Auchi.

The new Lebanese President had praised Lebanese emigrants in his inaugural speech.

"The second wing of Lebanon looks to us today, and hopes to see its homeland become greater. We recognize the rights of our expatriates, and move forward with procedures to enhance their adhesion, and use their abilities by employing them, so that they would not need to live outside their country," said Sleiman.

Auchi had also met with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and congratulated him on the role he played which led to election of President Sleiman and the agreement between the various parties.

He hailed the balanced approach of Berri and his endeavor to establish a formula that serves Lebanon and its people.

Auchi said Berri expressed optimism regarding the success of the Doha accord which, Berri noted, is being implemented by all parties.