Minister of Interior and Municipalities Ahmad al-Hajjar announced on the occasion of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad that this occasion calls for invoking the values of mercy and tolerance, to serve as a bridge that brings the Lebanese together and guides the nation toward greater security and peace. Al-Hajjar added: "We ask God to protect Lebanon and grant it the stability it deserves, and for our nation to remain united and committed to coexistence, with its people enjoying security and tranquility." He concluded by saying: "Happy New Year to Lebanon, and may the Lebanese people be ever more united, loving, and peaceful."