Narendra Modi.

Syed Shayaan Bakht, Staff Reporter

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a message of condolences to his UAE counterpart His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on the passing away of his brother Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi shared a copy of the message through its Twitter account on Friday.

The message reads, “Your Highness, It is with profound sadness that I learnt about the passing away of your brother, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance and Industry.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of the India, I wish to convey my profound condolences to Your Highness, the Al Maktoum family and friendly people of the UAE. We pray to the Almighty to give you strength and fortitude to bear this personal loss.  

“The people of India join their UAE brother and sisters in mourning the loss of a committed leader. The Indian community in Dubai will always remember the special kindness and affection they received from His Highness.

“Please accept, Your Highness, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Narendra Modi”

Sheikh Hamdan passed away at the age of 75, after several months of illness.

Sheikh Hamdan witnessed all stages of the UAE’s journey and tremendously contributed to the national development drive. He was one of the country’s leaders and participated in its renaissance and in designing its future. He was a remarkable icon of the country’s political, economic, social, cultural and sporting life.

Sheikh Mohammed shared the tragic news on Twitter with a note, “We belong to God and to Him we shall return ... May God have mercy on you, my brother, my support and my companion.”

Dubai announced 10 days of mourning and flags will be flown at half-mast from Wednesday. The emirate also suspended work in departments and institutions for a period of three days, starting from Thursday.