Damascus  - Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has banned smoking in public places, including government offices, restaurants and cafes, reports said Monday.

Violations of the new law, which also applies to the smoking of water pipes, or nargillah, are to result in a fine of up to 5,000 Syrian pounds (100 dollars).

The sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to people under 18, tobacco advertisements and the manufacture and import of all kinds of sweets or toys made in the shape of cigarettes has also been outlawed. (dpa)