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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
World
Grace Witherden & Geoffrey Bennett

Prince William breaks silence as he mourns death of royal

Royal tributes have been made following the death of Oman's Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.

The reclusive leader died at the age of 79 following a five-year battle with colon cancer.

Prince William has made his first public statement after 'Megxit' to pay tribute to a well respected ruler who had an "unwavering commitment to improve the lives of his people".

The statement from Prince William read: "It was clear from all those I met that he will be remembered with great affection."

"His Majesty was unwavering in his commitment to improve the lives of his people, and in his resolve to work towards regional stability.

"I am thankful for His Majesty’s many years of friendship with my family and the UK.

"I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Omani people, and wish to send a personal message of friendship as Oman mourns the death of His Majesty."

The Sultan will be succeeded by his cousin and culture minister Haitham bin Tariq.

A tribute from the Queen read: "His devotion to Oman, to its development and to the care of his people was an inspiration. He will be remembered for his wise leadership and his commitment to peace and understanding between nations and between faiths."

UK Prime minister Boris Johnson said: "He will be remembered for his devotion to the development of Oman into a stable and prosperous nation, and as the father of the nation who sought to improve the lives of the Omani people."

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