Because of its long history and rich culture, the Republic of Lebanon has always inhabited a special place in the world. Beginning with its independence on November 22, 1943, Lebanon has been and continues to be an integral player in the Middle East and throughout the international community.

As an Arab country, Lebanon’s official language is Arabic; however, French and English are widely spoken.

In fact, Lebanon is a founding member of the League of Arab States (LAS) and the United Nations and played a major role in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Upon its independence, Lebanon adopted this flag as a symbol of its enduring strength through self-sacrifice, durable peace, and sound democracy.

As a democratic republic, Lebanon enjoys a parliamentary system of government and a cabinet headed by a Prime Minister. The structure of government at the national level is based on its constitutional principle of separation of executive, legislative, and judicial powers.His Excellency
General Emile Lahoud, as a protector of the constitution, serves his six-year term as President. The 128 members of the Parliament are elected by universal adult suffrage for a four-year term. The Speaker of the House, His Excellency Mr. Nabih Berri, was elected to his post in 1992. Currently, His Excellency Mr. Fuad Siniora is Prime Minister.