World Leaders Extend Condolences to Iran on President Raisi's Passing
NEW DELHI, May 20 (Bernama) -- World leaders have extended their condolences and expressed grief over the passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi who perished in a helicopter crash in northwestern Iran on Sunday.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in extending his condolences, announced a day of mourning after Iran confirmed the death of Raisi, 63, foreign minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and other officials in the crash.
"I along with the government and people of Pakistan extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Iranian nation on this terrible loss. May the martyred souls rest in heavenly peace. The great Iranian nation will overcome this tragedy with customary courage," Shehbaz said.
"Pakistan had the pleasure of hosting President Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian on a historic visit, less than a month ago. They were good friends of Pakistan," he said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his condolence message recalled the late president's contribution in strengthening India-Iran relations.
"My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow," Modi said.
The Iranian embassy in New Delhi described Raisi as "the supporter of the world's oppressed, the servant of the people of Iran".
The tragedy was mourned in the Maldives and elsewhere in South Asia as well.
"I pray to Almighty Allah to bless the souls of President Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdollahian, and others who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident and to grant them Jannatul Firdaus. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and people of Iran at this time of profound grief," Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said.
Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer said Raisi was "a dedicated leader who will be remembered for his wisdom and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Iran and its people" and called Amir Abdollahian "a keen supporter of the renewed relationship" between the Maldives and Iran.
"Sri Lanka is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian, and other senior Irani officials," President Ranil Wickremesinghe said in his comments.
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed his shock over the incident.
"I recall the many visits and bilateral meetings between our nations, and also President Raisi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka last month," he said.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has extended his condolences to the people and government of Iran, in a message on X.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the Iranian government and people over the passing of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and those accompanying them following a tragic accident.
“We pray that God grants them eternal rest and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to their families. The UAE stands in solidarity with Iran at this difficult time,” he said.
President of the European Council, Charles Michel in a post on X said: “The EU expresses its sincere condolences for the death of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Abdollahian, as well as other members of their delegation and crew in a helicopter accident. Our thoughts go to the families”.
-- BERNAMA
