Melkite Patriarch warns West: do not encourage Arab rebellions

May 06, 2011

Melkite Catholic Patriarch Gregorios III Laham has cautioned leaders of the Western world that they should not throw their support behind revolutionary movements in the Arab world.

"Our Arab countries are not ready for revolutions," said the Melkite Patriarch--whose flock is concentrated in Syria, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories. He said that the overthrow of existing regimes could cause chaos in the region, and allow more radical forces to gain power.

Rather than encouraging revolutionary movements, the Patriarch said, the leaders of the Western world should press Arab governments "to develop democratic structures, freedom, and respect for human rights."

 

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Further information:

• Don't encourage Arab revolutions, Melkite patriarch tells Western leaders (CNA)