The President of the Republic assumes the negotiations to sign international treaties and ratify them with the consent of the Head of Government. They cannot be ratified, except after the approval of the Council of Ministers. The Government brings them to the attention of the Chamber of Deputies, as soon as the interest and safety of the State permit. Treaties involving provisions related to the State finances, trade treaties, and other treaties which cannot be annulled on a yearly basis, cannot be ratified except after the approval of the Chamber of Deputies.

Lebanon is a parliamentary democratic republic based on respect for public liberties, especially the freedom of opinion and belief, and respect for social justice and equality of rights and duties among all citizens without discrimination.

The freedom to express one's opinion orally or in writing, the freedom of the press,
the freedom of assembly, and the freedom of association shall be guaranteed within the limits
established by law.

Arabic is the official national language. A law shall determine the cases in which the
French language can be used.

Lebanon is Arab in its identity and in its affiliation. It is a founding and active
member of the League of Arab States and abides by its pacts and covenants. Lebanon is
also a founding and active member of the United Nations Organization and abides by its
covenants and by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Government shall
embody these principles in all fields and areas without exception.

Individual liberty is guaranteed and protected by law. No one may be arrested,
imprisoned, or kept in custody except according to the provisions of the law. No offense may
be established or penalty imposed except by law.