ABU DHABI: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari offered condolences to the newly-elected President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Al-Nahyan family, the leadership and people of the UAE, on the demise of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

The Foreign Minister also offered condolences to other members of the Royal family and prayed for the strength and fortitude of the leadership and brotherly people of the UAE to bear the irreparable loss.

Lauding invaluable contributions of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa in strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and the UAE, the Foreign Minister grieved that Pakistan lost a sincere friend with his demise.

Paying respects to the life and legacy of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, the Foreign Minister fondly recalled his services to the nation and country, which will forever remain etched in history.

The Prime Minister also conveyed best wishes to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan upon assuming his responsibilities as the new President of the UAE.