Sad News, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa Dies At The Age Of 73

UEA is chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. (Wikimedia Commons/Argentine Pink House)

JAKARTA - The sad news comes from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan passed away on Friday 13 May, the Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced.

"The Ministry of Presidential Affairs offers condolences to the people of the UAE, the Arab and Islamic nations and the world on the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE," the state news agency Wam said in a statement, as reported by the Khaleej Times on May 13.

Born on 7 September 1948, Sheikh Khalifa is the second President of the UAE and the 16th Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. He is the eldest son of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has served as president of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi since 3 November 2004. He was elected to succeed his father who served as the first president of the UAE, from the union in 1971 until his death on November 2 2004.

Since becoming president of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa has led a major restructuring of both the Federal Government and the government of Abu Dhabi. Under his rule, the UAE has witnessed accelerated development, ensuring decent life for the people who call the country home.

After being elected as President, Sheikh Khalifa launched his first strategic plan for the UAE government to achieve balanced and sustainable development, placing the well-being of the citizens and residents of the UAE at the core.

His ultimate goal as president of the UAE is to continue the path set by his father Sheikh Zayed, whose legacy, he said, "will continue to be a beacon that guides us to a future, a prosperous future where security and stability will reign."

Sheikh Khalifa directs the development of the oil and gas sector and downstream industries which have successfully contributed to the diversification of the country's economy. He toured extensively throughout the UAE to learn about the needs of the Northern Emirates, where he gave instructions for building several projects ranging from housing, and education to social services.

In addition, he launched an initiative to develop a nomination system for members of the Federal National Council, which is seen as the first step toward establishing direct elections in the UAE.