Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi will lead the delegation to Oman to condole demise of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said. External Affairs Ministry said, Mr Naqvi will also be carrying a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Sultan Sayyed Haitham bin Tariq bin Taimur Al-Said. Government of India is observing a day of state mourning today and flags are being flown at half-mast.

India has maintained close and friendly relations with Oman under the leadership of Sultan Qaboos. He was a true friend and well-wisher of India in guiding and elevating bilateral engagements to the strategic level for the mutual benefit of the people of the two countries.

The Ministry said, With profound sorrow, the government and people of India have received the sad news of the demise of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said.

In the passing away of Sultan Qaboos, the world has suffered an irreparable loss of a visionary leader and statesman who not only led his nation towards remarkable progress and prosperity but also was a beacon of peace for our region and the world.