President Cyril Ramaphosa has on behalf of the government and people of South Africa extended his deepest condolences to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the passing away of His Royal Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

His Royal Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan served as the President of the United Arab Emirates since 2004 and was the second President of the UAE and 16th Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. He was the eldest son of Sheikh Zayed, Founder of the United Arab Emirates.

President Ramaphosa said: "We offer our deepest condolences to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Acting President of the United Arab Emirates, as well as to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

"We extend our sympathies to the Rulers and royal family as well as the government and people of the United Arab Emirates. We mourn with them and share in their loss."

President Ramaphosa recalled that the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan presided over major political reforms and made significant contributions to the socio-economic upliftment and welfare of the people of the United Arab Emirates, which remains a global example.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan will be remembered for his tireless efforts in enhancing bilateral relations between the democratic South Africa and the UAE and promoting the interests of the South African government and people.

These relations were further strengthened by the state visits of former South African Heads of State.

President Ramaphosa attended the South Africa National Day celebrations at the Expo 2020 in Dubai on 28 March 2022 and expressed South Africa's honour to be part of this global event.