Acknowledgements
Overwhelmed as I was by the elections and the analysis of the results which followed, and having been deeply involved in the cabinet formation, it is only now that I am able to thank, wholeheartedly, all those who have expressed their loyalty to me by reelecting me, and all those who have supported me and offered their congratulations.

I only hope that I will live up to their expectations. I promise that, whatever the task, I will continue to serve all Lebanese. My main concern now is to help my fellow citizens overcome the daunting social and economic problems which loom above us, not to mention the political, regional and, unfortunately, resurgent sectarian problems which we have had to face.

Lebanon is unique in its amalgamation of so many different denominations, components and parties - which is why national reconciliation is my utmost priority.

Results of the vote
Our electoral list brought together the many components of our political life: Emir Talal Arslane with three candidates, the Syrian Popular Party with two candidates, the Waa'd party with two candidates, Amal with one candidate, Hizbollah with one candidate, Pierre Daccache (independent) and myself (independent).

Observations: 1- Emir Talal Arslane and the Hezbollah representative, who were both elected, were registered on both lists.
2- In spite of an opposition list which had mobilised a majority of Christians, I obtained 6000 more Christian votes than the opposition list.

Conclusion: I am the only "survivor" of our list, which foundered. This was achieved without the benefit of a party-supported electoral machine or of a strategic alliance, but without the loss of my independence either.

Government
-	I nominated Mr. Rafik Hariri during the parliamentary consultations to lead the new government. My choice was dictated by socio-economic considerations which required the leadership of a man such as him. I had, however, one condition - that Mr. Hariri change his style of government.
-	On Thursday 26th October 2000, I was appointed Minister of State President Lahoud's second cabinet. What does this mean? It means I will be able to devote more time to a minister's primary task of playing a political role in the formation and implementation of national policies.
-	I will later dwell on the details of the main topics which I intend to raise gradually at the Council of Ministers.
-	The Bkerke declaration I support the declaration because it touches upon crucial issues such as: 1) The socio-economic crisis: We must tackle this issue as a matter of urgency 2) National reconciliation: I would go so far as to say that the Christians are being treated as a vanquished community 3) Syrian-Lebanese relations: While being deeply attached to the sovereignty and independence of Lebanon, I cannot help but be concerned about the armed Palestinian presence on Lebanese soil in the absence of a settlement to the Arab-Israeli question. I therefore believe that dialogue alone can lead us to a just and viable agreement with Syria.

" To contact me please forward your mail to the following address : politics@pierrehelou.com "