President Assad Dies

Damascus, 10/6 /2000

The Regional and the National leaderships of the Baa’th Arab Socialist Party mourned President Hafez al-Assad passing away on Saturday morning. President Assad’s death also mourned by the Peoples’ Assembly and senior bodies in the government and the party.

‘’ We mourn to the Arab nation the death of the great passed away man President Hafez al-Assad as well as his son dr. Bashar, Maher, Majd and Bushra in addition to all the Assad’s and Makhlouf’s families,’’ an official statement said. ‘’This is a day of sadness and sorrow in every HOME , school, university, farm and quarry,’’ Speaker of the People’s Assembly Abdul Qader Qaddoura said. In an extraordinary session for the Syrian parliament to amend the constitution, Qaddoura said ‘’sadness is in the heart of every man, woman and child because the legacy of President Assad’s accomplishment and ideas is a planet that will shine not just on this generation, but also on coming generations.’’ ‘’We are before a great calamity but we believe in our people and hid political and social forces as well as his brave army would face it with courage and wisdom,’’ he added. ‘’ You Syrians, the steadfast leader who defended his nation’s rights has left … He, the leader who raised along with his values and ideals as well as his policy has gone.. The leader who fight for more than half a century  for the Arabs pride and their unity and freedom to protect their dignity and restore their rights passed away…,’’ the Speaker said.

The Departure of President Assad the Leader Capitals 10/6/2000

TVs’ and satellite stations all around the world have cut their programs on Saturday to announce the calamity event of the leave of President Hafez Assad. They started to transmit Koreans verses while international news agencies began to present details of the passed away President life for three decades during which he struggled for the national and patriotic rights and the establishment of the just and comprehensive peace.

In Cairo, the radio stooped programs to announce the news and Koran verses to mourn the death of President Assad who was on good brotherly ties with the Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Secretary General of the Arab League expressed the league deep sorrow for the death of the great leader an announced the Arab League flag would be at half mast for a week.

Syria announces official mourning

Damascus, 10/6 /2000

The Arab Republic government on Saturday announced the official morning on the death of nation and the HOMEland President Hafez al-Assad for 40 days. Flags all over the country as well as in the Syrian embassies aboard will be put at half mist to observe the morning.

Syrians saddened over President Assad’s death

Damascus, 10/6 /2000

Syrians on Saturday were saddened over the death of President Hafez al-Assad after hearing the calamity news that shocked the country. The moment news of the President death heard around , TV and radio cut their programs and started airing recitations from the holy Koran verses.

Cries heard in almost every Syrian house. Sadness covered faces of the people while shopping houses sand magazines closed doors and churches ringed bells while mosques aired Koran.

The Syrian parliament amends article over the age of Syrian President

Damascus, 10/6 /2000

The Syrian parliament on Saturday amended article number 83 over the age of the would be Syrian President making it 34 years instead of 40.

More than third of the committee formulated to amend the constitution article voted by majority on a provision to make he who would be nominated to the post of the Syrian Arab Republic President to be ‘’an Arab Syrian who enjoys his civil and political rights and fulfilling the 34 years.’’

Iran / condolences

Tehran, 10/6 /2000

Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi on Saturday night extended his deep condolences to the Syrian people on the death of president Hafez al-Assad.

This came in a phone call made by Kharrazi to Foreign Minister Farouq al-Sharaa. ‘’President Assad was a tough struggler leader who led his people in a veteran way during a delicate and difficult period to the security and stability,’’ Kharrazi said in his message of condolences.

Kharrazi hoped the building erected by President Assad would be kept on the road of Syria’s independence and the road of work to restore the legitimate rights of the Syrian people.

Golan's Citizens / Statement

Occupied Syrian Golan / 10/6/2000

Syrian citizens in the occupied Golan Heights greeted the Lebanese National Resistance and all those who support it on top of which is Syria under the leadership of President Hafez Assad.

In a statement, Golan’s citizens underlined that the resistance wrote an honorable page in Lebanon's history in particular and the Arab nation in

general and realized a victory that was considered an important turning point in the history of the Arab-Zionist struggle.

The statement underscored the Golaneze rejection of Israel's attempt to enter Lahd's agents to the Golan villages and underlined that this attempt by Israel aimed to plant sedition.

The statement renewed the Golaneze condemnation for Lahd's agents who held weapons against their people and harmed every honest citizen in the Arab nation.

 11/6/2000

Iran had announced a three-day mourning at the demise of the great leader Hafez Assad.

Bahrain had announced a three-day mourning and Bahrain's Emir Sheikh

Hamad Bin Eisa al-Khalifa made a phone call with Dr.Bashar Assad

and offered his condolences.

Dr. Bashar Assad Received Condolences

Damascus 10/6/2000

President Hafez Assad's demise Saturday stunned the nation and world leaders worldwide with grief and sorrow over the passing symbol of peace and steadfastness.

Dr. Bashar Al-Assad, President Assad's elder son, received tens of commiseration cables and calls from Arab and foreign leaders and officials worldwide.

The senders of the cables expressed deep sorrow and grief over the president demise. Among the callers and senders were Presidents and leaders of Lebanon, Yemen, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, France, and many others.President Jacques Chirac of France highly lauded President Assad's sincere work for peace in the region.Sudanese President, Omar Al-Bashir described the late President as the 'Symbol of Arab Dignity and steadfastness''.Lebanese President Emile Lahoud said in his cable that he was the last person to talk by phone with President Assad. Lahoud quoted President Assad as saying in the call '' We have to build a brilliant future for our sons and our duty is to inherit them better than what we inherited''.

President Assad is reputed for his national sacrifices unwavering search for the interests of his land and people and most importantly for the modern Syria, which he himself has built. Tony Blair of Britain issued a statement saying '' President Assad has been the factor for stability in the Middle East''.

In Brussels, Romano Brodi of the European Commission voiced deep grief saying that '' President Assad would ever be remembered for his immense and great contributions to his country''.

The US Albright and Clinton lauded President Assad's contributions for peace in the Middle East.

In a statement, Clinton offered condolences on the demise of President Assad.

Moratinos, the EU envoy, asserted '' President Assad's sincere and full commitment to Mideast peace process''. "President Assad has been the man of Peace.'' Moratinos said in a radio statement. Iranian Revolution Spiritual Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamini, described the late President as '' a great figure in the Arab and Islamic world, who has served throught his life the great interests of Syria as well as of the Arab world.''. Khamini highly lauded President Assad's great contribuion to the Arab-Islamic solidarity and to the recent liberation of Lebanon.

Kofi Annan of the United Nations issued a statement describing the late President as '' A statesman of the highest quality,who is steadfast and commited to his principles", " President Assad's demise is a big loss for the Syrian people,Arab world as well as for the entire region''.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Ismael Cem, regretted this demise voicing sorrow and grief over it . Russia's Brimakov highly lauded the wise policy pursued by the late President noting to his advocacy of peace in the Middle east. Russian President, Putin, said in a commiseration cable '' President Assad has been one of the most brilliant leaders of the modern world".

The Omani Sultan, Qabbous,said '' President Assad has consecrated his life to support the Arab and international causes''. Algerian President Boutafliqa, noted that the President demise is a great loss for the whole Arab nation. Hizbollah Leader, Hassan Nasserallah, issued a statement on the demise of the president '' who has made of Syria a castle for all honest and freedom fighters as to restore their rights''. The Lebanese President, Premier, Parliament spokesman and other national parties mourned the demise of the president, largely held as " the savior of Lebanon''.

The Palestinian Liberation Army issued a statement on the occasion highly lauding President Assad's strenuous efforts and unwavering support to the Palestinian Cause and People.

Dr. Bashar Assad Nominated General Leader of the Army

Damascus 11-6-2000

Dr. Bashar Al-Assad was nominated here Sunday as the Supreme Commander of the Syrian Armed Forces.

In a legislative decree by Vice-President Abdul Halim Khaddam, Dr, Bashar's military rank was upgrades as a lieutenant General.

Dr. Bashar Condoled Over the Demise of Syria's Builder

Damascus-11/6/2000

Dr. Bashar Hafez Assad received here Sunday President Emile Lahoud of Lebanon, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Premier Salim Al-Hoss.

The Lebanese officials offered their country and their own

condolences to Bashar and to the Syrians asserting Lebanon's ever indebtedness to President Hafez Assad's unwavering support to their

country.

President Assad is largely viewed as the man who saved Lebanon from its domestic civilian war.

Dr. Bashar received a telephone call from President Omar Hassan Al- Bashir of the Sudan, who offered heart-felt commiseration and condolences on the demise of President Assad.

Saudi Minister of Defense, Sultan Bin Abdulaziz, phoned Dr. Bashar offering condolences.

The UN General Assembly, which observed a moment of silence in respect for the great leader, is to convene an eulogy session next Thursday in memory of the late Assad.

The Assembly members, each representing its group geographically, delivered speeches describing the passing leader as ' A big loss for Syria, the Arab world,and for the world at large''.

"President Assad had been an Arab leader, who played a unique role at the Arab and international arenas. History would ever remember his national stances in defence of right and justice'' the speakers added.

Today's Press worldwide focused at the sad event of the president demise in details.

Mass media means in Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Sudan, Tunisia, Algeria, Palestinian territories, Russia, Turkey, Slovakia, and Yugoslavia voiced deep grief over the president demise.

The media means highly lauded President Assad's great accomplishments for Syria, Arab solidarity, right and justice asserting that loss has an international not only a regional impact. The media spoke of President Assad's persistent endeavors for the realization of just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

Dr Bashar Received condolences

Damascus 12/6/2000

Syria shrouded with deep sorrow over the demise of her builder continued mourning in bitter tears and steadfastness. Hundreds of Arab, regional and world leaders called the Nation's hope, Lieutenant General Bashar Assad offering condolences.

President Bill Clinton of the US phoned Dr. Bashar yesterday offering his deep condolences to him, his family and to all Syrians.

"I ever remember President Assad with admiration and respect'' Clinton said in the call.

Dr. Bashar reiterated that Syria would ever remain sincere to President Assad's approach as to realize just and comprehensive peace in the region.

Dr. Bashar earlier received a similar call from President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, who described the late President as "the hero of war and the advocate of peace''.

The Saudi Monarch phoned Bashar, the Supreme Commander of the Army, offering condolences and heartfelt commiseration on the demise of the late President.

The Supreme Commander of Armed Forces, Bashar Hafez Assad, received similar cables of condolences from world leaders, presidents,

kings, Emirs including Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Tunisia, Algeria, Iran, Pakistan, China, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland, Hungary, Turkey, Switzerland, Brunei, Palestinian Authority.

Lieutenant General Bashar, the Supreme Commander of the Army, received yesterday an Army delegation representing Syria's top Army officers including Defense Minister, and Chief-of-staff.

The delegation condoled the Supreme Commander of the Army pledging ever loyalty to President Assad's national approach.

Meantime, Church Patriarchs and men of religion prayed for the late President soul rest highly speaking of his contributions to peace, love and amity.

Mass Media Means and top officials all over the world poured words of condolences and praise to the late President speaking of his wise and historic leadership as '' the illuminating star glittering over the region for more than 30 years'' ''With the demise of the President, Arabs have lost the historic Leader''.

Meanwhile, The Baa'th Arab Socialist Party National and Regional Leaderships were rained with hundreds of condolence cables commiserating the demise of the Party Secretary-General. The Syrian Embassies worldwide were open for condolences where people flocked as to jot down words of commiseration.

Delegations partaking in President Assad’s funeral arrive in Syria

Damascus, 12/6 /2000

Sudanese President Omar Hassan Bashir arrived in Damascus on Monday to partake in President Hafez Assad funeral on Tuesday morning.

Somali Prime Minister Omar Ghaleb also flew in Damascus to join Syrians their grieve over the President death.

Ghana’s was represented by an ambassador at the Foreign Ministry Joumati And Pakistan Information Minister Javit Jabbar arrived in addition to former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bouto.

King Abdullah of Jordan would share in the passed away President funeral, it is announced in Amman on Monday.

The Vatican, declared The Holy Sea Foreign minister Jean Louie Torran would take part in the funeral.

Turkish President Ncdet Sezaar announced he would partake in the president funeral to make the first visit abroad since he took over last may.

Japan decided to send its Foreign Minister Yohi Konou to share in the funeral in addition to eight other foreign ministers including US Secretary of State Madeline Albright.

Lieutenant General Bashar Assad receives delegations

Damascus 12/6/2000

Lieutenant General, the Supreme Commander of the army, Dr. Bashar Assad, on Monday noon received the Secretary General of Hizbollah in Lebanon, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah and a delegation from the party leadership. Sheikh Nasrallah conveyed condolences and expressed sorrow and grief at the loss of the big leader who vowed his life to serve his people, Arabs and Muslims causes.

Later, Dr. Bashar received the Lebanese Army leader General Michel Suleiman who conveyed the Lebanese army condolences to Dr. Bashar and he congratulated him over taking his new post as the supreme commander of the army.

Dr. Bashar received also former Lebanese President Elias Hrawi,former FM Fares Bouiz, and President Hrawi's family who offered their condolences and expressed deep sorrow and grief at the demise of the big leader.

Dr. Bashar meets Sudanese President

Damascus, 12/6 /2000

General Commander of the Army and the armed forces Dr. Bashar al-Assad on Monday met Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir who arrived to participate in President Hafez al-Assad funeral.

Al-Bashir offered his personal and the Sudanese people condolences to Dr. Bashar and expressed gratitude to the late President due to his struggle and steadfastness in front of the enemies.

Dr. Bashar / Russian President / phone call

Damascus, 12/6 /2000

Lieutenant General Dr. Bashar Assad on Monday received a phone call from Russian President Valdimir Putin who offered his deep condolences on President Hafez Assad’s death and apologized not to attend the funeral due to his schedule.

‘’ Putin expressed deep regret over the passing away of the great deceased and voiced sorrow over not being able to attend the funeral because of his previous engagements,’’ a statement said.

Putin underlined the importance of the bilateral ties that has always been developed and expressed confidence to carry on bilateral contacts.

Dr. Bashar also received a phone call from the United Arab Emirates Defense Minister Mohammed Bin Rashid who presented his deep condolences over the leave of late President Assad.

Lebanon Grieves Syria’s leader death

Beirut, 13/6 /2000

The Lebanese capital on Tuesday plunged into deep sadness on the day of President Hafez Assad burial in his birthplace Qirdaha on the Syrian coast.

Hundreds of thousands of Lebanese kept staying before TV sets to follow up the funeral details and paying respect on him form the world leaders and the Syrian people.

Streets were emptied but from cars carrying black-flags and photos for the late President and Dr. Bashar Assad.

Minarets recited Koran verses while churches bells rang in a gesture of sadness on the late president.

Syria grieves over President Assad’s death

Governorates, 12/6 /2000

Syria’s governorate on Monday carried on expressed deep sadness over the passing away of President Hafez Assad.

Huge demonstrations were observe in almost all governorate where people poured into streets carrying black banners and national flags while chanting ,’’ There no God but Allah … The Martyr is God’s beloved… With soul and blood we redeem you Bashar.’’

The carried President Assad and Dr. Bashar photos. Mourning stands were built in main cities of the country where people offer condolences to each others and drink the black coffee.

Shopping centers and magazines were still closed for the third successive day while hundreds of cars and small buses toured streets to express sorrow and sadness over the death of the late President.

Black ribbons watched stretching over building from windows and balconies in most of the Syrian cities.

Foreign Minister Sharaa’ receives Nasrallah

Damascus 12/6/ 2000

Foreign Minister Farouk Al-Sharaa ' on Monday received the Secretary General of Hizbullah, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah and the party's leadership.

Sheikh Nasrallah offered honest condolences for Syria at the demise of her great leader President Hafez Assad and praised his excellency's struggling virtues and continuous defending of Arabs and Muslims rights.

The delegation underlined that Syria by walking on President Assad's method embodied by his son Bashar will overcome this calamity with strong faith in the justice of the nation's causes that generations are struggling to realize.

Syrian Christians held masses over Assad’s death

Damascus, 12/6 /2000

Supreme Head of the Syrian Orthodox Church in the world Patriarch Zakka Iwas the first on Monday held a religious mass at Maraarat Saydnaya near Damascus over the soul of the passing President Hafez al-Assad.

‘’ President Assad was the torch that stopped from enlightening. His passing away has increased the calamity and a great catastrophe inflicted in us,’’ the Patriarch said in a preach.

For his part, the spiritual leaders of the national Anglicans in Syria Priest Peter Zarour in another mass President Assad was the father and the  teacher who made his country an example to be followed in strength security, freedom, fraternity and justice. " He was the leader who led the ship in success to the safety shore during the toughest times,’’ said the Priest.

The great departed /Farewell Ceremonies

Damascus 13/6/2000

Arrangements for President Hafez Assad's funeral due on Tuesday 13th June started here on Sunday.

The funeral will start at eight o'clock where the coffin will be transferred on hands from President Assad's house where he spent the last three decades to the Ummayad square in Damascus. At Ummayad square a big public farewell will take place where the masses will express their love and deep sadness over the great leader who exchanged with them through his life love and loyalty. The coffin will be hold on a cannon wagon covered with the Syrian flag and accompanied by various kinds of weapons. From Ommayad square the procession will pass Maza street and will reach Maza airport at 11 o'clock,after that the body of his excellency will be transfered by a special plane to the airport of Martyr Basel Assad in Latakia.

The great late will arrive to Nae'sa mosque in Qirdaha at 3,00 p.m. were the body will be layed out so that quests from Arab and friendly countries and the nation's sons could pay the last farewell look at this great leader. After the after noon and the funeral prayers, the great late leader President Hafez Assad will be buried at the the family tomb.

Dr. Bashar Assad, his brothers and the party's leadership in addition to the Progressive National front will receive condolences.

President Assad’s body moved to his birthplace on the Syrian coast

Damascus, 13/6 /2000

After General Commander of the Army and the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Bashar al-Assad received condolences from Arab and Foreign Leaders who arrived in Damascus to bid farewell to the late President Hafez Assad ; the body of the deceased President was carried by hands and put on a cannon van heading to the airport.

The procession moved to al-Mazzah airport near Damascus where crowds gathered to pay farewell to the leader who became a symbol of struggle in Syria.

At the airport, the body was carried again by hands of senior officers of the armed forces while shroud with the Syrian flag. Then the body transferred to the airport while music played the martyr and the last farewell from a the armed forces band that represented various kinds of the army. Dr. Basher was accompanied the body as well the Late President family members.

President Assad’s body arrives to Birthplace

Qirdaha, 13/6 /2000

The airplane carrying the body of the late President Hafez al-Assad this afternoon touched down at Hmaymim airport and Dr. Bashar Assad accompanied the coffin.

Senior army officers carried the coffin and loaded later onto a gun carriage while a group of officers paid him military respect.

The procession launched among crowds of gathered Syrians of the Lattakia region as well as the near by towns and villages. They insisted on accompanying the body to his last place.

Along the road leading to Qirdaha , hundreds of persons chanted ‘’ there is no God but Allah and the martyrs are our condolence … We scarifies our blood and soul for you Bashar.’

Syria Bid Farewell her Builder

Damascus 13-6-SANA

Shrouded in black, the orphan non-sleeping sobbing country laid her builder late President, Hafez Assad, to rest at his birthplace in Al- Qirdaha Tuesday.

Following a two-hour solemn coffin procession among Damascus streets amid the crowds of the tens of the thousands of the stunned Syrians, Arabs, and foreigners, the President casket was moved to the Palace of People in Damascus where it was laid for the visitors to pay respect to the late hero, who has transformed his country into a modern civilized oasis.

Hundreds of mourners thronged, tens of them fainted and collapsed, to catch a glimpse of the black- draped coffin, in which their ever- living guru rests, shouting

"God is the Greatest"

"Bashar is the hope of the Nation''

'' We save our blood and soul to Bashar''.

Dr. Bashar, the hope of Syria Al-Assad, accepted the condolences of visiting dignitaries including Presidents, Premiers, Parliament Speakers and high ranking officials. Among the presidents are those of Yemen, the Sudan, Armenia, Lebanon, Egypt, Palestinian Authority, Iran, Jordan, Algeria, Turkey and Malta; Premiers and deputy premiers of Bangladesh, Spain, Portugal, Bahrain, Qatar, Ukraine, China, Somalia; Parliament Speakers of Austria, Yugoslavia, Mauritania, Morocco and Algeria, Russia, Belarussia, and Italy Foreign Ministers of Nigeria, Norway, Britain, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Canada, Japan, Belgium, Greece, the USA, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican and Finland, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands representatives of the Arab League UN, Tunisia, Chile, Afghanistan (President Rabani Government), Sri Lanka, Brunei, Cuprus, Ghana, Pakistan.

An Arab Palestinian delegation arrived earlier chaired by Dr. Azmi Bshara.

Meantime, Lieutenant-General and Commander in Chief, Dr. Bashar Hafez Al-Assad, received tens of thousands of Condolence cables on the demise of the Father of the Nation.

Dr. Bashar accepted the condolences at "People Palace" in Damascus Tuesday from 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. before the President Coffin was flown to his birthplace at Al-Qirdaha, 200 kilometer northeast of the capital. The President's Casket was farwelled by the million of Syrians, most of them never blinked on vigil stunned at the Ummayad Square from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. President Assad's coffin was later on laid to rest in his birthplace cemetery. There Bashar and his Family members received condolences.

Dr. Bashar yesterday met the visiting Sudanese President, Omar Hassan Al-Bashir, and the Saudi Crown Prince, Emir Abdullah who paid tribute to the late President voicing heart-felt commiseration. Russian President, Putin, phoned Dr. Bashar offering condolences apologizing for being unable to attend the funeral due to pre-set forth arrangements.

Delegations are offering condolences to Dr. Bashar

Damascus, 14/6 /2000

Hundreds of Syrian political vocational delegations poured into Qirdaha the HOMEtown of late President Hafez al-Assad to offer condolences to his son Dr. Bashar al-Assad over the death of his father.

Political officials as well as military officers and delegations embodying the syndicates and popular organizations in Syria poured into Qirdaha in the northwest of Syria. Lieutenant General Bashar al-Assad accompanied by vice President Abdul Halim Khaddam, Zouhair Masharqa and the speaker received condolences at the Assad’s house. Bashar shook hands and exchanged words with them.

President Assad was buried on Tuesday in a popular and heart stricken funeral as well as an official mourning ceremony held in Damascus.

Bahrain Emir offers condolences

Damascus, 14/6 /2000

Bahrain Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Eissa al-Kahlifa on Wednesday afternoon offered condolences to Dr. Bashar al-Assad over the death of President Hafez al-Assad in his birthplace of Qirdaha , 300 KM northwest Damascus.

The Bahrain Emir underlined after presenting condolences his keenness to ‘’ develop brotherly ties between the two counters.’’

‘’ We appreciate and back the Syrian people nomination of brother Lieutenant General Dr. Bashar to lead the country due to what he is representing of his youth friends , the Arab thinking and the national feeling as well as the sincere work that is inspired by his deceased father late President Hafez Assad,’’ he said.

‘’ I underlined Bahrain’s standing by Syria as a leadership and people in this great ordeal,’’ he added.

Personalities / condolences

Capitals, 14/6/ 2000

Hundreds of political personalities and diplomats poured onto the Syrian embassy in Cairo to offer condolences on the death of late President Hafez Assad.

They noted in their words in the Book of condolences to the greatness of the late President personality and his sincere efforts to serve the Syrian people and the Arab nation.

Pope Shenouda the third of the Alexandria expressed his deep regret and heart stricken over President Assad’s death. In a statement to SANA reporter in Cairo, He said President Assad passed from our world but not from our hearts because he left for us values, ethics and consolidated positions that we are proud of.

For his part, the Arab League Assistant Secretary General, Ahmed Bin Helli voiced the league sorrow for the great leader’s leave saying he dedicated his life to defend Syria’s causes and the national issues in addition to save her interests.

In Tehran, the Syrian embassy opened its lobby to recite Koran verses over the passing away of President Hafez al-Assad and to receive condolences.

While in Amman of Jordan, Arab ambassadors in the capital hailed virtues of the deceased great man and voiced sadness for his departure during these tough times the Arab nation was passing through.

Lebanon’s Ambassador, Adnan Alam el- Din said the absence of President Assad was a great loss for Syria, Lebanon and the Arab nation.

‘’ He was a symbol of adherence to the right, the Arab land and the Arabic firm positions,’’ he said.

In Tunisia, Iranian Foreign minister Kamal Kharrazi said President Assad’s name would remain unforgettable in the region.

In Beirut, spiritual leader of the Hizbullah party Mohammed Hussein Fadllallah said President Assad was posing an ‘’obsession ‘’ for Israel.

‘’ A personality of this kind that has this way of strategic thinking has always been constituting a main hinder in front of the Zionists ambitions,’’ he said.

He called to encounter the upcoming period with a lot of awareness, steadfastness, patience and cautious.

Condolence cables

Damascus 14/6/ 2000

Assistant Secretary General of the Baa'th Arab Socialist Party,

Comrade Abdullah Al-Ahmar, and the national leadership on Wednesday

received more condolence cables from local, Arab and international

parties and figures that expressed deep sorrow and grief over the

demise of the big leader, President Hafez Assad.

The cables underscored that the great late was a big leader who

consecrated his life to serve the HOMEland, to protect Syria's

independence and the Arab nation's struggle.

" Late President Assad contributed in developing his country and in boosting Syria's relations with the Arab brothers and the friendly countries all over the world," the cables added.

The senders of the cables expressed hope in Syria's future under the leadership of Lieutenant General Dr. Bashar Assad as to liberate the occupied territories and to restore the complete usurped rights as well as to continue the march of construction.

Bouti / Word

Qirdaha 15/6/ 2000

The Syrian people learned from their great late leader wisdom, highness, peace and not to abandon their rights,Sheikh Saed Al-Bouti said here on Wednesday in a word before lieutenant general Dr. Bashar Assad and members of the regional and national leaderships.

" Responsibilities are heavy but God will help you. I congratulate the Syria people that they will not transfer from this umbrella into a burning sun but will remain within shady shadows," Bouti concluded.

Dr. Bashar meets dignitaries

Qirdaha / 15/6/ 2000

Lieutenant General Dr.Bashar Assad on Wednesday received Khaled and Abdul Hakim Abdul Naser, the sons of the late Egyptian leader, Jamal Abdul Naser.

Khaled Abdul Naser offered condolences to Dr. Bashar at the demise of the great leader Hafez Assad and visited the tomb of the late President in Qirdaha.

Later, Dr. Bashar received Sheikh Hussein Fadlallah and his accompanying delegation who offered condolences at the death of President Assad.

Earlier,Sheikh Fadlallah and the accompanying delegation visited the tomb of the late President and read Al-Fatiha.

Figures /President Assad

Capitals 15/6/ 2000

Political,cultural and governmental figuers all over the world continued to express sorrow and grief at the demise of President Hafez Assad.

They unaninously praised the Syrian people's choice for lieutenant general Dr.Bashar Al-Assad to succeed his father.

The French strategic analyst Paul Mary De La gorus,expressed optimism at Syria's future after the nomination of Dr.Bashar Assad.

Editor in chief of the French magazine, liberacion, underscored that there is no crisis in Syria but the internal changes are necessary for Syria as to take her effective and normal position.

In Beirut,Lebanese former President Elias Hrawi said:" President Assad is a school for steadfastness who built modern Syria and strongly defended the Arabic rights,worked on to embody the Arab solidarity and didn't accept an incomplete peace."

Assistant Secretary General of the AL,Dr. Mohammad Zakaria Ismael, underscored that President Assad's demise was a big national loss.

PTT mourning march in Damascus streets

Damascus, 15/6/ 2000

Post and Telecommunication Institution PTT Thursday afternoon went in a mourning march across Damascus streets as an expression of deep regret for the departure of the late President Hafez Assad.

A hug photo draped in black for the late President Hafez al-Assad with another one to Lt. Gen. Dr. Bashar al-Assad saying ‘’ with you for ever to carry on the walk,’’ and ‘’ there is no God but Allaha,’’ headed the march.

The march crossed Damascus streets to stop in front of the communication Ministry. There it turned into a support for Dr, Bashar gathering.

Along streets the march passed by, hundreds of Syrians grouped on balconies observes dangling black flags and chanting ‘’ with soul and blood we redeem you Bashar.’’

Minister of Information / Press conference

Damascus, 15/6 /2000

Minister of Information Adnan Omran on Thursday said the upcoming Congress of the Baath Arab Socialist Party scheduled to kick off next Saturday would put down a new strategy for the future in Syria.

‘’The ninth Congress of the Baath party would start a five-day gatherings early next week on time to discuss the political, economic and organizational reports that deal with the country situation reaching to drawing a new strategy for the country that meets the Syrian people aspirations,’’ In his first meeting with Arab and Foreign press men, Omran said.

Asked if the new strategy would be complementary for the old one; Omran said the party congress would deal with all previous situations to evaluate them and get the positive lessons as to deepen them.. while it would tackle the passive aspects .

He clarified that the people’s Assembly would hold a meeting in June 25th to study the regional leadership decision to nominate Dr. Bashar al-Assad to a leading position in the party and the state.

The regional leadership would present this nomination in accordance to the Syrian constitution to a national referendum.

‘’ President Hafez al-Assad death was a great loss bot only for Syria but also for all Arabs and those who believe in the just and comprehensive peace,’’ he said.

Algerian President optimistic over Dr. Bashar eligibility

Damascus, 15/6 / 2000

Algerian President Abdul Aziz Boutafliqa said in a farewell message upon his departure from Syria on Thursday he was quite sure that LT. Gen. Dr. Bashar al-Assad would be fitted for carrying on the message of his late gather President Hafez al-Assad.

‘’ I Am optimist that my late brother will present for his people a leader who would keep the assurance,’’ he said in a farewell message after attending funeral of the late president in Damascus.

Boutafliqa noted that he was ready to work with Dr. Bashar to achieve what the two sisterly people in Syria and Algeria were looking for of goodness and the Arab rank strength.

" I pray for God to perpetuate al-Assad’s message. He who built the greatness of modern Syria and he who will remain among the most famed of the Arab nation’s personalities and as one of the brightest figures in the 20th century,’’ he said.

Dr. Bashar offered Nasrallah condolences

Qirdaha, Syrian coast, 15/6 /2000

Lt. Gen. Dr. Bashar Assad on Thursday has offered condolences by Secretary General of the Lebanese Hizbullah party Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah and the accompanying delegation over the passing away of President Hafez Assad.

Senior religious and political dignitaries rushed to the house of the Assad’s family in Qirdaha to offer condolences on the great calamity that affected Syria and the Arabs.

Representative of the Anglican Church in Syria and Lebanon. The Muslim young women association in Lebanon and various Lebanese associations presented their deep condolences on this occasion.

From the political figures and delegations were Secretary of the central committee for the Fateh movement of Abu Moussa and secretary general of the Popular front for the Liberation of Palestine General Command, Ahmed Jibril as well as the secretary General of the Islamic Jihad Movement Ramadan Shallah . the Palestinian Authority representative Oum Jihad of Intisar al-Wazir also offered her deep sympathy.

Lebanese army delegations and Lebanese ministers and party delegation from varied parts of Lebanon also extended condolences to Dr, Bashar Assad.

An Iranian delegation representing the biggest religious reference in Iran headed by Sheikh Mohammed Abu Massoud extended compassion over the passing away of late President Assad to Lt. Gen. Bashar al-Assad in addition to a delegation of the liberated southern Lebanon.

Hizbullah SG pledges resistance continuity

Qirdaha, Northwest Syria, 15/6 /2000

Secretary General of the Hizbullah party in Lebanon Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah on Thursday pledged the constancy of the Lebanese resistance as to complete the honorable process of the late President Hafez Assad.

During his meeting with Lt. Gen. Bashar Assad to extend comfort to the Assad’s family, Nasralalh stressed the Lebanese resistance would be ‘’permanent following the steadfastness and struggle inclination of the late President Hafez al-Assad and to back his process.’’

‘’I am her to support the process and inclination of Dr. Bashar al-Assad due to his being a perpetuity to his father,’’ he said.

Nasaralh expressed his hear wishes for Dr, Bashar and his good family over the HOMEland master departure.

UN Secretary General / Condolences

New York 15/6/ 2000

UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, on Thursday praised the great late president Hafez Assad's principled stands and cooperation with the international organizations.

" President Assad was for thirty years a partner of big value for the UN and presented an example of Syria's firm leadership," Annan added in a word in the book of condolences at the headquarters of Syria's permanent delegation to New York.

He added that construction on the legacy of the late President would be a great challenge for all of us. Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Assistants, Ambassadors of the accredited countries at the international Organization, religious and political figures and representatives of the Arab commissions in New York and New Jersey expressed their deep sorrow for the demise of the big leader.

In words, they highly evaluated the big role of the late President in opening the door of the just and comprehensive peace and his unlimited defending for the land sovereignty and the people's rights.

They also praised the late president's wisdom, commitment to the international legitimacy and to the goals of the UN Charter as a basis to solve the Middle East cause and to restore the Syrian and Arabs rights.

Furthermore, the Syrian Embassy in Washington received condolence cables from prominent Arab and American personalities that expressed deep sorrow over the calamity.

Mourning of President Assad's Untimely Passing Continued

Qirdaha 16/6 /2000

Thousands of mourners flocked to President Assad's burial place in his HOMEtown, Qirdaha, Friday offering their heart-felt condolences reciting verses of the Holy Koran and the Bible praying for the rest of the soul of their guru.

Delegations from all over the country's 14 governorates, Lebanon, Arab and friendly countries gathered since the early morning nearby the president tomb hoisting placards on which expressions of sorrow and grief were written amid sharp cries of loyalty to the Son of Modern Syria builder, Lieutenant Colonel Bashar Hafez Al-Assad.

Lieutenant General Bashar is highly considered by all Syrians as " The Nation Future Hope'' and as one of the late President '' Greatest legacies'' to continue the march of modernization, prosperity and welfare initiated by the late father, who was able to transform Syria from coups-plagued country into an oasis of progress and prosperity on the way just and comprehensive peace.

Bashar has been for the fourth day running standing to accept the condolences of the millions of people from all ranks and places. He showed strength, manhood, and restraint facing the untimely death of his father, indeed the father of the nation. Bashar's steadfastness reminds mourners of President Assad's 1994 offered condolences to the Syrians from the airplane which carried martyr Bassel Al- Assad's body to Qirdaha.

Dr. Bashar received Friday the Lebanese Minister of Agriculture, Suleiman Franjiah, who offered condolences to His Excellency.

Lebanon, leadership and people, was saddened by the sudden demise of President Assad, who was the dynamic force and mastermind behind halting civil strives in lebanon. President Assad's unwavering support to Lebanon compelled Israel to withdraw its occupation forces from South Lebanon, just days before Assad's Soul flies back to her Creator in Heavens.

A group of Hizbollah fighters paraded by the president tomb in recognition for his suuport to their legitimate resistance against occupiers.

Hizbollah Leader, Sheikh Hassan Nasserallah, was among the mourners who offered condolences to Lieutenant General Bashar Hafez Assad.

Lebanese President Emile Lahoud, who was the last person to speak with the president by phone, recalled Assad's final words as ''It has been our fate to inherit our coming generations the best''.

President Assad has tirelessly worked for the realization of just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East on the related UNSC resolutions and the principle of Land-for-Peace. Not to mention the unbearable pressures, Assad was able to survive uncompromisingly navigating the ship to the safety shores.

True was what President Assad said .The nation has now

unlimited resources of treasures of which the most valuable is Assad's Bashar, largely considered by all accounts as the man of the coming stage illuminated by the ever glittering stars of the late Assad.

"With Blood and Sould, we defend you Bashar'' has been the sharp cry uttered by all Syrians since the demise of the great builder''.

Thousands of condolence cables poured into the late president family members namely to Lieutenant General Bashar, Engineer Major Maher, Mr. Majid, Dr. Boushra and to Syria's first Lady. The cables carried feelings of grief and deep sorrow over the president's departure and prayers to the rest of his soul.

The Baa'th Arab Socialist Party leadership was rained by similar condolence cables.

World Leaders, officials and mass media means continued to speak of the tragic demise of the President asserting that the President demise is a loose not only for Syria, Arab and Islamic world but for the world at large.

A detailed narration of the late president accomplishments and sublime traits was given. Words, however, can never denote or indicate Assad's long life of national struggle and sacrifice.

Tents for mourners were erected all over the country to receive condolences. These tents have been full since the shocking news last Saturday where the Syrians to the voice of Koranic Verses observed eulogies and prayers to the passing leader rest. Syrian Embassies all over the world continued to receive condolences on the demise of Syria's ever greatest leader.

Dr. Bashar meets Lebanese delegations

Qirdaha, Northwest Syria 16/6 /2000

Lt. Gen. Dr. Bashar al-Assad on Thursday received former Lebanese President Elias Hrawi who offered condolences on the passing away of the late President Hafez al-Assad.

Hrawi visited to tomb of the late president and put a wreath of lower on it.

Earlier, Dr. Bashar received the Lebanese Army Commander Michele Sulyman who offered his deep comfort over the late of President and put a flower wreath on his tomb as he bowed with respect.

A delegation of the Amal Movement headed by Yacob Daher met dr. Bashar and expressing sympathy over the late President departure.

The Lebanese movement staged a march in and around Qerdaha town to include thousands of boycotts and peoples who later recited al-fateha over the soul of the passed away leader.

Meanwhile, in Damascus, Deputy of The Iraqi President Taha Mouhyeedin Marouf left Syria after participating in the late President funeral and offering condolences to Lt. Gen. Bashar al-Assad .

He was seen off at the Syrian-Iraqi border point Minster of Tourism Qasem Miqdad

Personalities /President Hafez Assad's death

Capitals 17/6/ 2000

Arab and International personalities continued to express sorrow and grief at the demise of President Hafez Assad and they expressed wide hopes over Dr. Bashar Al-Assad's leadership to modern Syria at the upcoming period.

In Amman, vocational, public and women figures unanimously said the death of President Hafez Assad constituted a big calamity for Syria and the entire Arabs.

The figures added that President Assad was the Arabic leader who confronted the biggest attack against the Arab nation amid the last thirty years and proved that he was the firm man and the difficult number in this nation.

They expressed satisfaction at lieutenant general Dr. Bashar's upcoming role and hoped that he will continue the march as to realize the goals of the late president.

Interviewed by 'Al-Rai' Jordanian daily, Russian Ambassador to Amman Alexander Ivanov underscored Russia's keenness to strengthen historical relations with Syria .He added that Dr. Bashar is a national personality and the Syrian people love and support him.

Ex-Jordanian ambassador, lawyer Jawdet Al-Mheisen, for his part, said: 'I'am sure that lieutenant general Dr. Bashar Assad will protect the big legacy left by the great late president.'

In Moscow deputy in the Russian Duma council and member of the Parliamentary committee for foreign affairs, Alexander Shabanov said the

Shabanov said we trust and hope that lieutenant general Dr. Bashar Assad will follow up and develop the traditional friendship relations between Syria and Russia that were established by his late father.

Chapter Three