King extends condolences over Tunisian president, Saudi prince

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah, during a visit to Tunis on Monday, extended condolences over the passing of Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, who passed away last Thursday.

King Abdullah offered his deepest sympathies, on behalf of the government and the people of Jordan, to interim President of Tunisia Mohamed Ennaceur, former first lady Chadlia Saïda Farhat, and the family of the late president, during a visit to Carthage Palace.

His Majesty highlighted the late president’s dedication to serving the people of Tunisia and serving Arab and Islamic causes, praising his major contributions to Tunisia’s development and his role in bolstering democracy, stability, and security.

At a meeting with interim President Ennaceur, the King affirmed that Jordan stands by Tunisia, expressing keenness to continue advancing the distinguished bilateral relations between the two countries and peoples.

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Adviser to His Majesty for Communication and Coordination Bisher Al Khasawneh accompanied His Majesty on the visit.

His Majesty returned home late on Monday.

Also on Monday, King Abdullah, in a phone call, expressed his condolences and deep sympathies to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud over the passing of Prince Bandar Bin Abdulaziz, the statement said.

Deputising for King Abdullah, Minister of Political and Parliamentary Affairs Musa Maaytah on Saturday attended the funeral of the Tunisian president.

Essebsi, Tunisia’s first leader elected in nationwide polls, died at the age of 92 on Thursday.

Upon his death, the Royal Court issued a statement announcing seven days of mourning and expressing “deep sympathies”.

The Jordanian flag flew at half mast for three days in mourning of the Tunisian president.