Maldives to fly national flag at half-mast in respect of Mandela

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen has declared the Maldives national flag will be flown at half-mast for three days following the passing away of former South African President Nelson Mandela, local media reported here on Monday. The president has also decided that Minister at the President' s Office Mohamed Hussain Shareef would represent the Maldives at Mandela's funeral, local media outlet Haveeru reported. Meanwhile, President Yameen has sent a condolence message to South African President Jacob Zuma, describing Mandela as a source of unrivalled inspiration for recent generations. The president assured the South African leadership that the Maldives stands shoulder to shoulder with South Africa in the true and comprehensive realization of Mandela's dream of a prosperous and peaceful South Africa. South Africa is preparing for the arrival of scores of world leaders as the official mourning continues for Nelson Mandela, international media reported. Some 60 heads of state have confirmed their attendance at this week's memorial events in South Africa.