BEIRUT: The Council of Maronite Bishops called on the Lebanese to unite and build a state based on equality, love and justice, according to a statement released by the secretary of Maronite Patriarchate, Bishop Nabih Tors.

Following the Council’s monthly meeting, Tors said that the bishops were concerned with the ongoing political bickering in the country, adding that it has harmed the government’s ability to provide services to the Lebanese.

Tors also said that the council calls on all Lebanese to respect the constitution of the country.

“The Council is also worried about the continuation of the tragic developments in some of the neighboring countries and the deterioration in the security and social situation there,” the bishop added, in a likely reference to the developments in Syria.