Kjell Magne Bondevik vs Rafic Hariri

Bondevik became Prime Minister in October 1997, leading a centrist coalition government of the Christian Democratic, Centre, and Liberal parties. His first term lasted until 2000.

Bondevik took a three-week sick leave in August 1998 for depression, becoming the first Norwegian PM to publicly disclose mental health issues. He returned to work after treatment.

Bondevik returned as Prime Minister in October 2001, leading a coalition government until 2005. His government focused on immigration policy and international development.

Rafic Hariri was appointed Prime Minister of Lebanon on October 31, 1992, after the end of the civil war. He was tasked with rebuilding the country's economy and infrastructure, leveraging his personal wealth and international connections.

Hariri's government initiated the reconstruction of Beirut's central district through the Solidere company. The project rebuilt the war-torn city center with modern infrastructure, but faced criticism for displacing residents and favoring wealthy investors.

Hariri resigned as Prime Minister in December 1998 after a dispute with President Emile Lahoud over economic policy and corruption. He returned to power in 2000 after winning parliamentary elections.

Rafic Hariri was assassinated on February 14, 2005, when a massive truck bomb exploded near his motorcade in Beirut. His death sparked the Cedar Revolution, leading to the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon and international investigations.