Prime Minister Imran Khan expresses grief over demise of Oman's Sultan Qaboos

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Oman's ailing Sultan Qaboos bin Said. In a tweet, the prime minister said: “I extend our deepest condolences to people of Oman on the passing of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. He was a visionary leader and transformed Oman into a vibrant and modern state. Oman has lost a beloved leader and Pakistan a close and trusted friend. May his soul rest in eternal peace.” https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1215881523775332354?s=20 Three days of official mourning have been declared with flags flown at half-mast for 40 days, for the Western-backed Qaboos, 79, who had ruled since taking over in a bloodless coup in 1970 with the help of former colonial power Britain. State news agency ONA did not give a cause of death, but Qaboos had been unwell for years and spent a week in Belgium undergoing medical treatment in early December. Qaboos had no children and had not publicly appointed a successor. A 1996 statute says the ruling family will choose a successor within three days of the throne becoming vacant. Meanwhile responding to the Quetta mosque attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan said: “I have demanded an immediate report on the condemnable cowardly terrorist attack in Quetta, targeting a mosque and people at prayers. I have asked the provincial government to ensure all medical facilities are provided to the injured. Martyred DSP Haji Amanullah was a brave and exemplary officer.” https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1215874919910854657?s=20