My sincerest condolences accompany my learning of the passing of the United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. I join his family, friends, and the people of the UAE in mourning the loss of a distinguished leader who saw to his country’s success while also setting up a viable vision of the future that will sustain these triumphs for future generations.

The dynamic leadership that both worked to fix the problems of the moment while remaining cognizant of what future impacts may arise demonstrated by Sheikh Khalifa is a testament to the potential greatness of Muslim leaders today. His ability to work with people from all walks of life and regions of the globe, from east to west, is a testament to great leadership across the board. And with this loss, the world is deprived of another influential individual who understood the need to balance issues and cooperate with others in a time when we need this understanding and ability to act upon it the most.

I hope that more of us can reflect on the deeds of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and take a page from his book. May Allah bless his soul and guide Sheikh Khalifa’s loved ones in these difficult times. Surely we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.

ANWAR IBRAHIM