Paris - French President Jacques Chirac condemned the "heinous attack" on Lebanese Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel who was shot dead earlier Tuesday.
Gemayel was anti-Syrian and the son of former president Amin Gemayel. He was a member of the Phalange party and was shot from at least one speeding car as he prepared to leave Beirut's Jedidah neighbourhood, witnesses said.
He died on the way to hospital, police said.
His murders should be pursued and punished, Chirac urged in Paris, adding, Lebanon's quest for independence, freedom and democracy would only be strengthened by this "terrible drama."
French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy said the assassination was "yet another attempt to destabilize Lebanon."