South African Government condemns Assassination of Former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri

Cape Town - President Thabo Mbeki today, Monday - 14 February 2005 -unequivocally condemned the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in a car bombing in central Beirut, Lebanon.

In this regard, President Mbeki extended South Africa's heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of Lebanon following the fatal attack on former Prime Minister Hariri motorcade.

"Our thoughts and prayers reach out to the family of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, the government and peoples of Lebanon during this time of bereavement," said President Mbeki.

The South African government reiterates its condemnation of all forms of terrorism, and maintains that military solutions cannot lead to the resolution of political problems.

The Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

14 February 2005