NEW DELHI, Dec 17 — The passing of Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, on Saturday, was mourned throughout Pakistan, the Maldives, India, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.
“The Islamic world lost a great leader and strong supporter for the cause of Islamic Ummah. My heartfelt condolences go to the royal family and the people of Kuwait. The government and people of Pakistan stand with their Kuwaiti brothers in this hour of grief,” Pakistan President Arif Alvi said.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu ordered the national flag flown at half-mast for three days starting Sunday to mourn Sheikh Nawaf’s demise at the age of 86.
Muizzu said the Maldives will always remember the late emir’s efforts in building and expanding bilateral relations.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Kuwait,” he said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences to the royal family and the people of Kuwait, and the government declared a one-day state mourning on Sunday.
The Afghanistan government said it shares the grief of the Kuwaiti people.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Kuwait during this period of mourning. May his legacy, leadership and dedication to his nation be a source of comfort in these challenging times,” Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry said.
Sheikh Nawaf passed away after a three-year reign.
Deputy ruler Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, 83, has been named as Kuwait’s new emir.