India declares one-day mourning on demise of UAE President; President, PM express condolences

New Delhi, May 13 (UNI) India has declared a one-day national mourning on Saturday, May 14, as a mark of respect to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, who passed away today.
The National Flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India on all buildings where the National Flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day.
President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have also expressed condolences at the demise of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
In their messages, they noted that he was a statesman and a visionary leader and recalled his contribution to the strengthening of India-UAE bilateral relations and the welfare of the Indian community in UAE, an official statement said.
President Kovind, in a tweet, said: “Saddened at the demise of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of UAE. We will always remember his contribution to our bilateral relations and welfare of the Indian community in UAE. My condolences to His Highness’ family, the Govt & the people of the UAE in this hour of grief.”
Prime Minister Modi tweeted his condolences:
“I am deeply saddened to know about the passing away of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed. He was a great statesman and visionary leader under whom India-UAE relations prospered. The heartfelt condolences of the people of India are with the people of UAE. May his soul rest in peace. “External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a tweet:
“We deeply mourn the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
“He will be remembered as a leader who modernized and empowered the United Arab Emirates. This laid the foundation of the transformation of the India-UAE relationship.”