Al-Assad cables condolences to Demirel on earthquake

President Hafez al-Assad has sent a cable of condolences to the President of Turkey, Suleiman Demirel on the earthquake which hit several areas in Turkey.

Al-Assad's cable reads: "With deep sorrows, we have received the news of

the earthquake which hit some districts in Turkey which resulted in many victims, casualties and material losses."

The message express to Demirel and to the people of Turkey "sincere feelings of condolences, commiseration to the families of the victims, and wishing quick recovery to the wounded.'

Meanwhile, Syrian Prime Minister Mahmoud al-Zou'bi on August 17 sent a similar cable of condolences to Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit on the victims of the violent earthquake which hit several Turkish areas.

The cable reads: " We received with deep regret news of the strong earthquake which hit several Turkish areas and resulted in heavy damages in lives and property. In the name of the Syrian government and my own name, I express to the Turkish government and families of the victims our most sincere commiseration.

"I am confident that the friendly people of Turkey will be able to overcome the painful consequences of this disaster and will continue the march of construction and progress."