Following is a letter to the Lebanese independence movement and opposition from The Honorable Vaclav Havel, former president of the Czech Republic and co-Chairman of the Committee on the Present Danger.

The letter was arranged by Ambassador Mark Palmer a Member of Spirit of America's Advisory Board.

13 April 2005

Dear friends,

Let me convey my greetings, solidarity and support to all of you who are pursuing, by peaceful and democratic means, goals similar to the ones that we in Central Europe set ourselves more than fifteen years ago: the path of freedom and independence, complete withdrawal of the occupying troops and renewal of the democratic system. What we consider important is that all this was achieved by peaceful demonstrations; by open, quiet but firm civic resistance.

Today, the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, gradually establishing itself as an open, democratic and prosperous European country. As such, it simply cannot ignore the state of democracy anywhere in the world. We have followed with great sympathy how the Lebanese, scarred by fifteen years of bloody civil war and post-war troubles, have set out to peacefully work for their country’s freedom and independence. What makes this especially important is that an open democratic Lebanese society might become a major source of inspiration for the whole sorely tried region.

The tragic death of your former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, a patriot and statesman whom I knew and respected, was not in vain. Thanks to your resolve, discipline and confidence in the future, the death has triggered off a process that nobody will stop now. By peaceful civic action you have managed to overcome not only fear and indifference, but also differences of opinion and religion, and to join hands for a better future.

On behalf of all freedom-loving people in the Czech Republic, let me convey to you our best wishes and hopes for the fulfilment of Mr. Hariri’s legacy, for the victory of the freedom and democracy that you are pursuing with such patience, courage and self-sacrifice. Try to never forget these days full of solidarity, hope and common quest for freedom and truth.

Yours,

(Signed) Václav Havel