New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday expressed grief over the death of Saudi Arabia's deputy prime minister and crown prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who was also the interior minister of the country.
In his message to King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Manmohan Singh expressed his "profound sorrow and deep grief" and offered India's "deepest condolences" over the sudden demise of the crown prince.
"Prince Naif will always be remembered and admired for his outstanding contribution towards the development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in many different fields," the prime minister said.
On Saturday, Saudi state television reported that Prince Naif died outside the the kingdom. He was said to be suffering from diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis, as well as cancer.
The royal court stated that his funeral service would be held Sunday.
A statement from Manmohan Singh's office said that a senior Indian minister would attend the ceremony.
IANS
First Published: Sunday, June 17, 2012, 16:10