ISLAMABAD: United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has passed away, the Ministry of Presidential Affairs said on Friday. He was 73. He was also the ruler of Abu Dhabi emirate.

The UAE government has announced 40 days mourning over his death. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep grief over the sad demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

In a tweet, he said UAE has lost a visionary leader and Pakistan a great friend. He said we send our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the government and the people of the United Arab Emirates. May Allah rest his soul in peace!

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed grief and sorrow on the sad demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

In a condolence statement, he said the role of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan in the development of the United Arab Emirates is commendable and unforgettable.

He said with the demise of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the Arabian region lost an extra-ordinary ruler. The Foreign Minister said he shares the grief of the people and the royal family of UAE on the death of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and all ranks of Pakistan Army have also expressed heartfelt condolence on the sad demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

In an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) tweet, General Bajwa said Pakistan has lost a great friend. He prayed the Allah Almighty to bless the departed soul and give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.