BEIRUT: Parliament took on a youthful face Sunday, the chamber
hosting students on the occasion of Children’s Day.
Both Parliament Speaker Nabih and Prime Minister Najib Mikati
took part in the special session, which was packed with students from across
the country.
The students, all dressed in white, got a chance to experience
the workings of the national assembly and took turns at posing questions on a
number of subjects, including Internet safety, health care, electricity and
Palestinian rights.
Berri, who opened and moderated the session, brought up the
subjects of the crimes committed by Israel, the elections process, as well the
aspirations of the people, in particular the youth and improving communication
between them and Parliament through local and international civil society
groups.
In his address on the occasion, Mikati said ever since he was
young he had dreamed of taking part in Parliament and said that freedom was not
absolute but was based on certain principles.
He also said education was pivotal for realizing the aspirations
of the youth.
One-hundred-and-twenty-eight students took part in the event,
which was also attended by the country’s first lady, Wafaa Sleiman.
In her speech to the house, Sleiman focused on the role that
children played in society and said “the rights of children secured under
international agreements stress their right to a dignified life, protection and
education while also stressing the important role that parents play."
Universal
Children’s Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 20, was first proclaimed by the
United Nations General Assembly in 1954 and aims at encouraging states to
promote mutual exchange and understanding among children.
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2011/Nov-20/154625-parliament-welcomes-students-for-childrens-day.ashx#axzz1eGNODTwV
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