2005 press releases

Statement by U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Jeffrey D. Feltman on the Occasion of Independence Day 2005

July 4, 2005

On the occasion of the 229th anniversary of America’s independence, the United States affirms the importance it accords to its relationship with Lebanon. The American people witnessed the outpouring of the Lebanese people onto the streets this year, heard their calls for sovereignty and independence. Americans understand the Lebanese desire for a peaceful, secure, strong, democratic, prosperous and independent country. These are the goals America’s Founding Fathers -- recognizing that they had to overcome differences between themselves in order to achieve a better future for their children -- declared for themselves 229 years ago, and they are goals that are achievable for the Lebanese people today.

On July 4, 1776, our Founding Fathers pledged to uphold their revolutionary Declaration of Independence with “our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” Today, the United States of America makes the same pledge to the Lebanese people: We will support you as you work with unity of purpose to achieve your vision of a democratic, independent and sovereign Lebanon. We applaud your courage to challenge complacency, your resolve to undertake reform. Today, on July 4th, as we reaffirm our commitment to the beliefs and values upon which our nation was founded, we express our desire that the blessings of liberty be bestowed on all who yearn for a brighter, more hopeful future.