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Tough times will pass: Takeaways from Sheikh Mohamed's speech

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Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the precautionary measures the country has taken to contain the spread of the virus.

By Sahim Salim

Published: Wed 18 Mar 2020, 5:16 AM

Last updated: Wed 18 Mar 2020, 11:27 AM

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, made an inspiring speech on Monday to allay any fears residents may have about the Covid-19 situation in the country. During a majlis, he highlighted the precautionary measures the country has taken to contain the spread of the virus.

Here are the key takeaways from the speech:
> The world shall overcome
"We will get through these tough times and survive the myriad challenges we and the entire world are experiencing. The hard times will pass. We might just as well use this time to get stronger than before," Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said.
> Why the UAE is faring well
"We, in the UAE, are lucky, as our conditions are relatively better."

He listed out the following reasons:
- Availability of qualified human cadres capable of efficiently shouldering the responsibility of confronting the proliferation of Covid-19
- Precautionary measures implemented early
- Early response to contain the virus at its onset
- UAE benefitted from the experience of other advanced countries like Singapore, South Korea and China in dealing with the situation

- UAE is still maintaining transparent channels of coordination with these countries

He added: "We are among the most successful nations in the region in addressing this challenge, both in terms of the number of individuals who have been examined and the potential and resources boasted by the country."
> Don't let traditions stop you from being safe
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed advised: "Our traditions are very dear to us, but we must be practical during these times. I ask every Emirati and resident to do what is necessary, and let's not allow our traditions to become a source of harm to our families and society. Take care of your mothers and fathers and families."
> We won't run out of food, meds
Countries around the world are facing challenges when it comes to food and medical supplies. But the UAE is not among them.
Sheikh Mohamed said: "I'd like to reassure every citizen and resident of the UAE that our country is infinitely able to supply everyone with all the food and medicine they could ever need."

These are the reasons he cited:

- Officials in charge know pretty well that medications and food supplies are a red line in the UAE

- UAE started preparations early on and is now secure and stable
"We have an advanced infrastructure and we're geared for all challenges whatsoever they are," he added.