The United Australian Lebanese Movement (UALM) held its annual dinner on May 4th, hosted at The Renaissance in Lidcombe, Sydney. The event brought together Lebanese MP Assaad Dergham, religious leaders, and representatives of various Lebanese political parties and organisations in Australia.

Guests enjoyed a traditional Lebanese meal while seated at circular tables, with distinguished guests at a rectangular table adjacent to the dance floor. Charbel Dib, President of the Sydney UALM chapter, thanked attendees for joining and extended his appreciation to MP Dergham.

MP Dergham then gave a speech, focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon caused by the Syrian civil war. Over one million refugees entered Lebanon since the civil war began in 2011, which has had a significant impact on the country. While some refugees have returned to Syria voluntarily or by force, many remain in Lebanon and rely on financial aid from the UN. This has caused concern among some Lebanese citizens, who are struggling to access their own finances in banks. MP Dergham did not mention the UN specifically but raised the issue of refugees accessing benefits such as free medicine, highlighting the unfairness.

The MP emphasized the need for unity among Christian parties in Lebanon to strengthen and prosper the country. He also mentioned the ongoing deadlock in the Lebanese Parliament over the election of a President of the Republic. He stated that no foreign influence would be able to sway the Parliament’s choice, and he expressed his unequivocal belief that Lebanon would return as the prosperous nation it once was.

MP Dergham was then presented with an award in recognition of his dedication to Lebanon. To conclude the night, a singer took the stage and led a lively dabke, bringing the attendees together in a celebration of their culture and community.

This event provided an opportunity for the Lebanese community in Sydney to come together and celebrate their heritage, but also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing Lebanon. The speech by MP Dergham emphasized the importance of unity and resilience in overcoming these challenges and restoring prosperity to the country.