Beirut: National Defense Minister, Major General Michel Menassa, on Tuesday visited the Qatari Embassy in Beirut, where he offered condolences to Qatar's Ambassador to Lebanon, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, on the passing of the Emir Father, Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Menassa wrote in the book of condolences: "With the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Lebanon has lost a great friend who stood by its side during its most difficult times. He was a noble Emir and a steadfast brother, particularly through his generous support in the aftermath of the July 2006 war and his constructive efforts during the 2008 Doha Conference."

Minister Menassa further expressed, "We extend our sincere condolences to His Highness Emir Tamim and to the brotherly people of Qatar, praying that God Almighty embraces the late great Emir with His boundless mercy."