New Delhi: Oman’s Sultan Qaboos bin Said, one of the Middle East’s longest serving rulers who maintained the country’s neutrality in regional struggles, died on Friday, and state media said his cousin Haitham bin Tariq Al Said was named his successor, reported Khaleej Times.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered him as “a beacon of peace for our region and the world.”
Modi tweeted, “I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. He was a visionary leader and statesman who transformed Oman into a modern and prosperous nation. He was a beacon of peace for our region and the world.”
In another tweet, Modi said that Sultan Qaboos was a true friend of India.
“Sultan Qaboos was a true friend of India and provided strong leadership for developing a vibrant strategic partnership between India and Oman. I will always cherish the warmth and affection I received from him. May his soul rest in peace.”
Sultan Qaboos was a true friend of India and provided strong leadership for developing a vibrant strategic partnership between India and Oman. I will always cherish the warmth and affection I received from him. May his soul rest in peace.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2020
Meanwhile, Haitham bin Tariq was appointed on Saturday after the high military council called on the ruling family council to convene and choose a successor. He earlier served as minister of national heritage and culture. In 2013 he was appointed by Qaboos to chair the main committee responsible for Oman’s development.
