Lebanon, like the Cedar Tree to which it gave the name has shown once more that it is capable to come alive from its ashes. The beautiful country has suffered tremendously for the last forty years. How much of it was the result of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict? What was the influence of the Cold War? The answers to these questions will require deep studies. But, it will suffice to say that Lebanon has always been at the center of Middle East politics. Lebanese politics reflect the complexities of the politics in the region. Also, Lebanon could not extricate itself from what is happening in the troubled area. A first indication came when the American Marines on the invitation of the Lebanese government landed on the beaches of Lebanon in 1958 following the Iraqi Revolution and King Faisal's assassination which gave the Baghdad Pact the mortal blow. The prosperous Lebanon of the 1960's later turned into a battlefield. 1970's and 1980's were terrible years. Beirut, which was called the Paris of the Middle East, was destroyed by internal fighting. To add fuel to the fire, in 1982, Israel invaded the country, evicted Yasser Arafat and continued to occupy South Lebanon. Hizbullah resisted the occupation and finally Israel left. During the troubles many Lebanese fled their country and went to live in neighbouring countries. The Syrian presence in Lebanon was a result of an Arab League decision, but the relations between the two countries were deeply affected by it. That also finally came to an end.

This brief look at the very recent history of the country shows how many and varied elements are involved. Add to that the religious dimension and we come up with a sensitive outlook. However, we should never forget the historical background and the strong national character of its people. Lebanese are famous for their ability in consensus building. They are the descendants of the Phoenicians, therefore clever businessmen. So, it was no surprise that Refik Hariri could build Lebanon out of the destruction. Now, it is up to the new politicians to give the country the stable and democratic infrastructure it deserves. Many Turkish families have close connections with the people of Lebanon. Turkey wishes the best for this people.