ABU DHABI // The UAE stands united in turbulent times, pays homage to its fallen heroes and will fiercely counter attempts to disturb the peace within its borders or the region.
That was the powerful message from the UAE’s Rulers for the 44th National Day.
Hailing the vision of Founding Father Sheikh Zayed, President Sheikh Khalifa paid tribute to fallen servicemen and said the country was committed to building its security capabilities and forging partnerships to meet threats to the stability of the GCC and Arab countries.
The heroism shown by the Armed Forces will increase resolve to combat extremism and violence, Sheikh Khalifa said.
“Terrorism is a menace that poses an existential threat to our states, and participation in the global anti-terror fight is an imperative and must-do act, as the world will not see security or stability or development without eradicating terror,” he said.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, spoke of the peace that the nation was keen to protect and challenges ahead.
“We were and will always be people of peace, building and development,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “But we will counter whoever plots to target us with evil acts. They will be fended off by us using full force and if war is imposed on us, we will fight.
“We have never embarked on aggression on others, but we are always ready to counter whoever attempts to attack us.”
Continued GCC unity was important, he said.
“We recognise the possibility of building a new pan-Arab regime that preserves the existence of Arabs, protects their rights, curbs foreign interference in their affairs and gives them positive effectiveness in their region.”
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, said national unity and security were key to the region’s future.
“We believe that our national security is part of Arab security and that building a strong Arab front to deal with the region’s variables and transformations is the only way to protect Arab interests.”
Sheikh Khalifa outlined to The Nation Shield, the official magazine for the Armed Forces, a 10-point national economic, social and educational programme for Government and people.
Co-ordinating with authorities to keep citizens happy remains a top priority, along with world-class housing, modern health care, more spending on infrastructure and development projects to stimulate the economy.
This will generate jobs and build an economy that is not solely dependent on oil.
Sheikh Khalifa also mapped out an overall plan to focus on teaching, upgrading education, investing in youth, promoting social responsibility, building a responsible national media and introducing laws to keep the UAE a safe centre for international investment.
The leaders of the other emirates also issued their National Day messages.
Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, advocated sincere leadership for a better future.
“What we aspire to for our country is greatness and what our citizens offer to their nation is a source of great pride for us all,” he said.
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, said the founding fathers vision provided a strong foundation and that “the sacrifices of Emiratis reflect their pride in national, Arab and Islamic values.”
The Ruler of Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, said: “The UAE is proceeding with its blessed march to build its glory and civilisation, while pursuing the principle of openness.”
Engagement and cooperation were crucial to growth, said Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah.
“Changes and development require us to constantly adopt strategies to promote and enhance stability.”
And Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, said National Day was a time for the country to remember the establishment of the Union and its success.
“On this occasion we remember with pride our founding leaders and above them, the late Sheikh Zayed.”
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, recognised the country’s fallen heroes.
“We extend appreciation to our martyrs, who sacrificed themselves for the sake of the homeland,” Sheikh Mansour said. “We greet our Armed Forces, who are role models in defending the homeland and the nation against all threats and challenges.”
Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed, National Security Adviser, added his voice to those praising the men who established the UAE and declared to world the creation of a new state.
“On this day, 44 years ago, the late Sheikh Zayed and the late Rulers of the Emirates raised the flag of the UAE, declaring to the people of the UAE, the region and the world the birth of a new state,” Sheikh Hazza said.
“Emiratis faced years challenges and difficulties until they reached the current cohesion and identity, and built a strong state.”
The Armed Forces’ mission was to defend the UAE’s values and support the oppressed, said Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs. “The 44th year of Union will be witness to many accomplishments that will no doubt help strengthen the Federation.”
National Day marks the great achievement of a “successful federal experiment” and led the UAE to “advanced stages of excellence”, said Dr Ahmed Al Mazrouei, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
“The UAE’s elevated standing and reputation regionally and internationally in various fields and domains are witness to the wise policies adopted in the state under the leadership and guidance” of Sheikh Khalifa, said Dr Al Mazrouei.
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