Assuming the leadership of the National Liberal Party, a secular nationalist movement founded by his late father Camille Chamoun and as a firm believer in the dynamics of the Lebanese diaspora, Chamoun traveled extensively visiting Lebanese communities in France, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the US, infusing them with the spirit of unity, and calling them into the service of the old country. A member of the Qornet Shehwan Gathering, a coalition of politicians, academics and businessmen opposed to the pro-Syrian government of Emile Lahoud, Chamoun has always been wary of any foreign support. With the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri Chamoun became a prominent participant in the Cedar Revolution that swept Beirut, calling for a total withdrawal of all Syrian troops from Lebanon, the resignation of the pro-Syrian government and the holding of free and fair parliamentary and presidential elections.
The interview with Ricardo Karam took place in Beirut, Lebanon.