Philippine foreign mission in UAE sends condolences on passing of UAE president

By JOJO DASS DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The Philippine foreign mission here joined the rest of the diplomatic community in mourning the death of UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who passed away on Friday, May 13, 2022. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed his post on Nov. 3, 2004, was elected to succeed his father, the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s first president since the country was formed in 1971. Sheikh Zayed passed away on November 2, 2004. In a statement, Ambassador Hjayceelyn M. Quintana, head of the Philippine missions in the UAE, said: "With profound sadness, the Filipinos join our Emirati brothers and sisters in deeply mourning the passing of the beloved leader of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan." The ambassador said Sheikh Khalifa “steered UAE towards becoming a global economic powerhouse, thus securing a bright future for his country’s future generations.” “The Filipino people stand in solidarity with the people and nation of the UAE in expressing heartfelt gratitude for what His Highness Sheikh Khalifa has done as the highest leader and great friend of many nations during his illustrious lifetime," Quintana added. Consul General Renato Dueñas Jr. also issued a statement expressing condolences. “His Highness Sheikh Khalifa was a great leader who showed great kindness and hospitality to thousands upon thousands of Filipinos who have considered the UAE their home away from home. “His life and leadership have significantly contributed to the remarkable progress of the UAE. He was responsible for raising the country’s stature to what it is today,” he said. Other diplomats in the UAE joined the rest of the country in mourning the death of Sheikh Khalifa, who they described as a “kind, well-respected leader and a father figure.” Born in 1948, Sheikh Khalifa was the eldest son of Sheikh Zayed. He was the second president of the UAE and the 16th Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced Sheikh Khalifa’s demise and has declared official mourning for 40 days from Saturday. Ministries, departments, federal and local institutions as well as private sector institutions will remain closed for three days until Monday. On Saturday, Sheikh Khalifa's half-brother Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan was elected president of the Gulf Arab state by a federal supreme council, according to a report by Reuters. —KG, GMA News

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