Azhar imam congratulates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on assuming UAE presidency

CAIRO – 14 May 2022: Grand Imam of Al Azhar Ahmed El-Tayeb congratulated Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahayan for becoming the new UAE president.

In posts on social media, Tayyeb wished the new ruler to proceed with the path of his late father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in serving the nation and spreading justice and good everywhere.

He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Sheikh Khalifa who died on Friday, noting that he was a unique icon who realized great achievements.

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Saturday morning headed to Abu Dhabi to offer condolences over the death of the UAE president.

Sisi on Friday mourned the death of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa, who died at the age of 73.

Sisi, in a tweet, called him a great leader who worked hard to turn the UAE into a model of development and modernization.

"Sheikh Khalifa truly loved Egypt and was a loyal friend through all circumstances," Sisi said.

The Egyptian president condoled with the UAE and its people for the death of Sheikh Khalifa.

“I deeply mourn with sorrow the loss of one of the most precious men and greatest leaders, President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who passed away after a long journey of giving during which he offered a lot to his country and nation, until the UAE became a model for development & modernity in our region and the world,” said President Sisi in a statement.

“On my behalf and on behalf of the people of Egypt, I offer the leadership and people of the UAE our sincere condolences for this great loss. I ask Allah Almighty to extend his mercy and forgiveness to the late UAE president and to maintain the UAE's progress and pride,” he added.

The UAE Federal Supreme Council Saturday unanimously elected Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed as the UAE president.