Sundaymail Editor
Senior Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has sent a condolence message to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the death of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayel Al Nahayan, whom he described as a father figure, strategist and visionary.
He died on Friday aged 73.
Sheikh Khalifa transformed the UAE into a global economic hub. In his condolence message, the President said he was an inspirational figure whose “unparalleled wisdom, magnanimity and generosity touched and transformed lives” in distant lands such as Zimbabwe.
“I wish to convey heartfelt condolences to the leadership, government and people of the United Arab Emirates over the irreparable loss.
“I wish to convey special condolences to His Royal Highness, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Royal Family over the passing on of his dear brother,” he said.
Sheikh Khalifa, President Mnangagwa added, served as an example of how leaders can transform nations.
“Today, we mourn a father figure and strategist, whose visionary leadership transformed the United Arab Emirates from a desert outpost to the global hub and jewel it is today …
“His indelible footprints will forever guide us towards full realisation of the dreams and visions he shared with us.”
Sheikh Khalifa had been President of the UAE since replacing his father Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 2004. The UAE, which is now the country’s second-biggest trading partner, sent humanitarian assistance to Zimbabwe when Cyclone Idai struck in March 2019, when President Mnangagwa was incidentally on a State visit to that country.
Meanwhile, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (61) is the new President, becoming its third leader.
Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu