We have learnt with sorrow that Brigadier Francois Hajj, Chief of Operations Department of the Lebanese Army lost his life this morning (12 December 2007) as a result of a bomb attack carried out on his car in the Baabda section of Beirut. It is reported that together with Brigadier Hajj at least four other persons lost their lives, and seven persons were wounded. We express our condolonces to the families of Mr. Hajj and the other victims of this attack, as well as to the Lebanese Army and people.

Turkey, opposed to all kinds of terrorism, strongly condemns this terrorist attack, as it did the attacks which occurred earlier.

The expectation of the people of Lebanon and of the international community in this sensitive period which Lebanon finds itself, is the successful conclusion of the Presidential election process and the establishment of stability in the country.

There is no doubt that the purpose of the terrorist attack in question is to drag Lebanon into a state of chaos and instability. In this regard, we believe that the people of Lebanon, acting with prudence, will not allow the terror actions to achive their goals, and destroy the basis for conciliation in the country. We hope that the perpatrators of this attack are apprehended quickly. We reiterate that Turkey will continue to extend its support and contributions to the establishment of an environment of tranquility and stability in Lebanon.