CANBERRA, Jan. 5 (Xinhuanet) -- Australian Acting Prime Minister Mark Vaile on Thursday extended condolences to the people of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the death of UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al Maktoum.

    Sheikh Maktoum died on Gold Coast of Australia's state of Queensland Wednesday, aged 62. His body has been flown home for burial.

    Vaile said Sheikh Maktoum, also the Emir of Dubai, is a man of vision and generosity.

    "On behalf of the Australian government, I extend sincere condolences to the people of the UAE, Dubai and the al Maktoum family on the death of Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al Maktoum," Vaile said in a statement.

    "Sheikh Maktoum was highly respected and admired as a man of vision and generosity who sought to advance the well-being of his people," he said.

    "The impressive social and economic development of the UAE and Dubai is testimony to his vision," he said.

    Vaile also mentioned Sheikh Maktoum's contribution to the relationship between the two nations.

    "Australia and the UAE enjoy a warm and growing relationship, with significant trade and people-to-people exchanges," he said.

    "A free trade agreement is currently being negotiated which will further expand the linkages between our two nations," he said. Enditem