Minister of Defense Mariya Ahmed Didi has signed the Book of Condolence in honour of the late President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In her comments, Minister Mariya described Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a visionary leader par excellence, whose devotion to nation-building and the ethos of international cooperation will be celebrated for posterity.

She noted that the fact was reflected in the robust growth of the Maldives-UAE defense and security relationship, under his solid guidance and leadership.

And the Minister offered sincere condolences to the family of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and extended sympathy to the sisterly people of the United Arab Emirates, on behalf of the Maldivian people who too are mourning this common loss.

The late President of the UAE, passed away at 73 years of age, on Friday, after battling illness for many years.

President Solih on Friday announced the decision to fly the national flag of Maldives at half-mast in honor of the late UAE President, for a period of three days.

The national flag will be flown at half-mast from May 14 – 16, in mourning for the late President of UAE.

Maldives is to observe a three-day mourning period, while joining world leaders across the globe to mourn the death of the late Sheikh Khalifa.