Lebanon celebrates Independence Day

Beirut: Lebanon held an official ceremony in downtown Beirut on Saturday to mark the country's 65 years of independence.

The military ceremony was attended by minister, lawmakers, ambassadors and other dignitaries.

Streets were cordoned off for the ceremony, which took place in Martyrs Square and was attended by President Michel Sulaiman, Prime Minister Fouad Siniora and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

Hundreds of red and white balloons were launched into the air as military helicopters with Lebanese flags flew overhead the parade of marching troops and tanks.