Leader conveys condolences over Rafsanjani’s death

Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has offered his condolences over the passing away of Chairman of the Expediency Council Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani.

According to Press TV, in his message on Sunday, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed grief over the sudden death of an old friend, comrade and ally during the struggles of the Islamic Revolution and close colleague during the post-Islamic Revolution period.

The Leader said Ayatollah Rafsanjani’s loss is overwhelming and very hard to bear, adding that their cooperation and empathy had lasted 59 years.

Ayatollah Khamenei said he and Ayatollah Rafsanjani had gone through many hardships and difficulties in these years.

The Leader said Ayatollah Rafsanjani's sharp wit and rare intimacy in their years of friendship had been a reliable support for all of those working with him.

Ayatollah Khamenei said some differences in opinion and interpretation between the two at times during this long period could never sever the friendship ties between him and Ayatollah Rafsanjani.

The Leader expressed condolences to Ayatollah Rafsanjani's wife, children, brothers and the rest of his family.  

Ayatollah Rafsanjani passed away in a hospital in northern Tehran on Sunday at the age of 82 due to heart condition.

He was among the main aides to the late founder of the Islamic Republic, Imam Khomeini.

He played an influential role both during the anti-Shah struggles before the victory of the Islamic Revolution and afterwards through various stages of the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

AS/SS