The 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide has led to a governmental and societal split in Beirut, not only regarding Lebanon’s representation at the commemorative ceremonies to be held in Armenia and Turkey, but also regarding the official Lebanese government's position.
In a Cabinet session held April 21 to discuss the public budget, ministers suddenly brought up the topic of the Armenian genocide, thus causing controversy. Ministers suggested that the Lebanese government issue a decree declaring April 24, 2015, a national holiday to mark the occasion of the centennial.
