Lebanese leaders expressed grief and nostalgia Friday on the eve of the 10th anniversary of the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, vowing to uphold his legacy by working for an independent and prosperous Lebanon.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry praised the late premier's vision and legacy, voicing his country's support for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.

In a statement, Salam described Hariri's death as a "sad moment" in Lebanese history, adding that he hoped his killers would soon be brought to justice.

Kerry said the election of a president was necessary for Lebanon to fully confront security and economic challenges posed by the Syrian conflict.

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon David Hale visited Hariri's grave as well to pay respects for the assassinated leader.

Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Naim Hasan highlighted Hariri's leading role in Lebanese history. "He carried Lebanon in his heart and mind, and worked for its development at every level".

During his Friday sermon, deputy head of the Higher Islamic Shiite Council Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan expressed his condolences to all Lebanese for Hariri and the other victims of the attack.

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