Arabic enhances national identity, says Abdullah

Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has announced his support for the ‘Bel Arabi’ (In Arabic) initiative launched by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRF), last week.

In a statement on the occasion of the launch of the initiative, coinciding with the International Arabic Language Day on December 18, Shaikh Abdullah highlighted the importance of the Arabic language and its essential role in nation-building as “it is the vessel of our identity”, pointing out his support for all unprecedented initiatives in this regard.

Shaikh Abdullah called for giving care and attention to the Arabic language, as it is considered the basis from which to enhance national identity in the community.

He also commended the attention given by the wise leadership of the UAE to preserve the Arabic language, hailing the Bel Arabi initiative which aims to change the stereotyped image of the Arabic language and prove it is a universal language, and encourage Arabs to use their mother tongue over the Internet, especially in social media.

He also praised the efforts of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, the leading institution in the dissemination of knowledge, development and support of promising projects in Dubai in implementation of the directives of the Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and those who are working on launching such outstanding initiatives. The Bel Arabi initiative specifically aims to reverse stereotypical perceptions that the Arabic language is just about literature, poetry or calligraphy.

In addition to building its potential as a vital communication tool in the age of technology and the internet, Bel Arabi will mobilise people around the world to come together in large numbers to promote the use of the Arabic language.

More importantly, the initiative will aim to enhance the visibility of websites and applications that support the Arabic language.