Statement of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi on the Passing of His Highness Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah

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His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi

Oct 27, 2010, 09:56 ET

RAS AL KHAIMAH, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- "Today, my family and I join the people of Ras Al Khaimah in mourning the passing of one of the world's greatest statesmen and principled and visionary leaders, my father, His Highness Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

Over the course of his extraordinary 92 years, my father served as a source of strength and inspiration for all of Ras Al Khaimah and for people around the world.

With optimism and courage, he liberated and united our people and led our great emirate through times of great challenge to a bolder, brighter future. He helped found and build the United Arab Emirates and its esteemed federal government. He stood shoulder to shoulder with all peaceful nations as allies and friends.

Even as we mourn my father's loss, we know that the people of Ras Al Khaimah will carry him always in their hearts and seek to honor his incredible example.

In the coming hours and days, I look forward to meeting with family, friends, members of the Supreme Council and rulers of the emirates to discuss our shared vision for Ras Al Khaimah and its great people.

Until then, we will mourn together as a family, a community and a nation. I am profoundly grateful for all of the generous thoughts, wishes and expressions of support both me and my family have received over the last few hours, both here at home and from other countries."

(H.H. Sheikh Khalid has posted a video in Arabic with English subtitles in loving remembrance of His Highness Sheikh Saqr at his website at www.rakforthepeople.com and www.sheikhkhalidrak.com.)

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi