Queen Elizabeth II mourns passing of Sheikh Khalifa

The UK's Queen Elizabeth II has expressed her sadness on the death of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In a message to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Queen Elizabeth said, "I am saddened to hear of the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Your distinguished brother devoted his life to serving the people of the United Arab Emirates and his relationship with its allies and friends."

The Queen continued, "He will be long remembered by all who work for regional stability, understanding between nations and between faiths, and for the conservation cause."

She added, "I offer Your Highness my sincere condolences and I extend my sympathy to the people of the United Arab Emirates."