The death of Syrian President Hafez Asad

• Berri: He had not closed his eyes before achieving the liberation of the South

The House Speaker Nabih Berri announced the death of Syrian President Hafez Asad saying:

"In the name of House Parliament, I announce to the Lebanese and Arabs the loss of the Greatest in this era, President Hafez Asad, who defended Lebanon against all conspiracies, he had not closed his eyes before liberating its South. I can find no condolence word to Dr. Bachar and all his family except that I and the whole of Lebanon are partners in condolences."

The government declared week mourning

• Hoss: He assumed the affairs and hopes of the Nation.
  
  Prime Minister Dr. Salim Hoss declared the following:

"With great sorrow and regret the Lebanese Government announces the death of the Great Arabic Leader who spent his life struggling to defend the Arab affairs, having deep in his conscience the Nation's sorrows, and in his great heart their hopes and pains, President Hafez Asad, May God have mercy on him.

At the terrifying calamity that fell on Lebanon deeply in its heart, and in gratitude to what the Great Deceased had offered to, of efforts, mind and heart, we announce the official mourning in Lebanon for one week starting from today. All the flags are dropped down on the entire Public departments and establishments. The TV and Radio broadcasting programs will be limited to the requirements of this painful occasion.

• Firzli: His absence leaves blank

Speaker's Vice President Elie Firzli saw that Syrian President Hafez Asad's absence leaves a great blank which might lead to big danger, was it not for the presence of Brigadier General Dr. Bachar Asad who will fill such blank, and who is able to cope with all the files and establishments that were represented by President Asad during his life."

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