ABU DHABI — The UAE diplomat abducted in Iraq has been released, Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan confirmed last night. “Naji Al Nuaimi, the UAE diplomat who was abducted in Iraq on May 16, was released tonight,” Shaikh Abdullah said.
The minister expressed the UAE’s “deep gratitude to the iraqi government for its faithful efforts, which culminated in the safe release of Al Nuaimi.”
Ali Nuaimi, elder bother of the diplomat, told your favourite No. 1 newspaper Khaleej Times from the family home in Dibba Al Hisn, Fujairah, late last night that he spoke to Naji Al Nuaimi "a few minutes ago" after his release.
"We are very happy, he called us just now. He is safe and sound and he is returning home to be with us in a few hours."
Ali Nuaimi thanked the UAE leadership and everybody else for the support they gave to the family at this hour of crisis for them.
Deputy Information Minister Ibrahim Al Abed said no money has been paid for the release. He said the diplomat was in good health condition.