Rafik Hariri
Rafik Hariri
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Rafik Baha El-Masri Hariri was commonly known as Rafic Hariri.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on November 1, 1944, in Sidon, Lebanon. He died on February 14, 2005, in Beirut, Lebanon.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Lebanese politician and businessman who served as the Prime Minister of Lebanon from October 1992 to November 1998 and again from March 2000 until his assassination in 2005.
Early Life and Background
Hariri was born into a Sunni Muslim family in Sidon, Lebanon. He studied at the American University of Beirut (AUB) and graduated with a degree in civil engineering. After completing his education, Hariri began working as an engineer for several construction companies in Kuwait before returning to Lebanon.
In 1965, he founded Oger Group, a successful construction company that would become one of the largest and most influential conglomerates in Lebanon. Under his leadership, the company expanded into various sectors including real estate development, telecommunications, and media.
Major Accomplishments
Hariri's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant achievements:
Reconstruction efforts: After the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon in 2005, Hariri played a crucial role in rebuilding the country. He implemented several infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and public buildings.
Economic reforms: As Prime Minister, Hariri introduced economic policies aimed at stimulating growth and reducing poverty. His efforts led to a significant increase in foreign investment and job creation.
Diplomatic efforts: Hariri was instrumental in strengthening Lebanon's relationships with neighboring countries and the international community.Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions associated with Rafik Hariri include:
The Beirut Waterfront Revitalization Project, a comprehensive redevelopment plan aimed at transforming the city's waterfront into a thriving commercial and tourist hub.
Establishment of the Lebanese Telecommunications Establishment (LTE), which provided essential services to the country.Impact and Legacy
Rafik Hariri's legacy is multifaceted:
Infrastructure development: His efforts transformed Lebanon's physical landscape, providing vital infrastructure for its citizens.
Economic growth: Under his leadership, Lebanon experienced significant economic growth, with many attributing it to his policies.
Diplomatic achievements: Hariri played a key role in strengthening Lebanon's relationships with regional and international partners.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Rafik Hariri is widely quoted and remembered for:
His vision for a prosperous, modern Lebanon
His commitment to rebuilding the country after years of conflict
* His efforts to strengthen Lebanon's position in the region
Quotes by Rafik Hariri
We don't think that we are in a quarrel with anybody. We may have a difference of opinion, but we'll not allow such differences of opinion to grow into a problem that stands in the way of reconstructing the country and regaining the democratic path.
You know, it is very clear that the Israelis, they don’t want this plan and they don’t agree.
We want to see Israel withdraw from our territory. But we don’t want to be accountable vis-a-vis Israel on the security basis, because we don’t see, in the absence of a peace agreement, that Lebanon can really be accountable to Israel if anything happens.
We dont think that we are in a quarrel with anybody. We may have a difference of opinion, but well not allow such differences of opinion to grow into a problem that stands in the way of reconstructing the country and regaining the democratic path.
And on the other hand, we see that the Israeli government is attacking that part of the Palestinian leader.
On the other hand, we have in Israel, an Israeli government which has been elected by the Israeli people. Their political agenda is not for peace. They are from the camp anti-peace.
I have... submitted the resignation of the government, and I have declared that I will not be a candidate to head the (next) government.
The Lebanese people voted this time for change. So they are not satisfied with the actual situation. They want to see a new government. They want to see a new vision.
You know, it is very clear that the Israelis, they don't want this plan and they don't agree.