On May 14, 2022, President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to New President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan over the passing of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan due to illness. On behalf of the Chinese government and people as well as in his own name, Xi Jinping expressed deep condolences over the passing of President Sheikh Khalifa, and extended sincere sympathies to President Sheikh Khalifa's relatives and the UAE people.

Xi Jinping stressed that President Sheikh Khalifa had been committed to maintaining political stability and promoting economic and social development in the UAE, winning deep respect and love from the UAE people. During his lifetime, President Sheikh Khalifa had been dedicated to the China-UAE friendship, and made active efforts to promote the development of China-UAE relations. His passing is not only a huge loss for the UAE people, but also means a loss of a good friend for the Chinese people. The Chinese government and people really cherish the China-UAE friendship. Xi Jinping believes that with joint efforts from both sides, the China-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership will see continuous consolidation and development.