| New United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa ibn Zayed Al-Nahayan yesterday received a "pledge of loyalty" from a younger brother bypassed in succession arrangements, a move which seemingly refutes claims about possible differences on the issue. "As I pledge obedience and loyalty to you, I pray the Almighty to make you succeed in what is good (for the country) and guide your steps toward right and justice," Sheikh Sultan ibn Zayed Al-Nahayan wrote in a letter to Khalifa. "You are the best successor to the best predecessor," said Sultan, referring to Sheikh Zayed ibn Sultan Al-Nahayan, who died on Tuesday after more than 30 years at the helm of the Gulf federation of seven emirates. "I congratulate you on the valuable trust placed in you by your brethren the rulers of the Emirates and its noble people by choosing you as head of state. It is a trust you deserve," he added in the letter. |