UAE leaders issue statements on 48th UAE National Day

'Education will remain a priority and our path to future', says Sheikh Kahlifa

'Education will remain a priority and our path to future', says Sheikh Kahlifa on UAE National Day
The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has said that "education will remain a priority and our path to the future", adding that the new year's federal budget has allocated a large proportion to funding federal schools and development projects.

In a statement to 'Nation Shield', the UAE Armed Forces' magazine, on the UAE's 48th National Day, Sheikh Khalifa added that the UAE Cabinet issued a resolution to establish an education support fund, which will enable the community to fund education development programmes that focus on building skills, values, trends and exploring and developing talents, as well as providing a decent life for all citizens.


He further added that the government views Emiratisation "as a true measure for success", but clarified, "By Emiratisation, we do not mean the mechanism for employing nationals, but rather a tool for enabling."

Read the full statement:

"My sons and my daughters,

"On this blessed day commemorating the journey of the nation of tolerance and peace, I salute you on the 48th anniversary of the UAE's National Day. On your behalf, we express our congratulations to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and my brothers, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the Crown Princes. We commemorate and express our appreciation for our martyrs, who have performed heroic glories while defending their country.
"On 2nd December, we, the UAE's people and leadership, renew our loyalty to our country, and we commemorate the blessed memory of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers, the Founders, who have established the solid foundations of a strong country that has impressed the entire world with its comprehensive renaissance. It has also granted its citizens pride, dignity and greatness. We shall always remain proud of the achievements of the Founding Fathers, believe in their approach, and follow in their footsteps in advancing the nation and making its people happy.
"For this purpose, the UAE Supreme Council, the federal government and local governments are working in close cooperation to implement policies and strategies into national plans, projects, programmes and initiatives that will improve the quality of services, empower citizens, achieve their aspirations, and ensure their happiness. This cooperation was manifested this year in the growing level of political empowerment, through raising the participation of Emirati women in the Federal National Council, FNC, to 50 percent, which placed the UAE among advanced nations in terms of women's parliamentary representation.
"Dear esteemed citizens,
"The past year has been dedicated to all areas of social development, as more than half of the federal budget's resources have been allocated to fund community development and social benefit programmes to achieve excellence in priority sectors, most notably healthcare, education, creating a safe and coherent community, justice, sustainable infrastructure, and a diverse knowledge-based economy.
"Education will remain a priority and our path to the future, and to confirm this approach, the new year's federal budget has allocated a large proportion to funding federal schools and development projects. The UAE Cabinet issued a resolution to establish an education support fund, which will enable the community to fund education development programmes that focus on building skills, values, trends and exploring and developing talents, as well as providing a decent life for all citizens.
"The federal government began, in coordination with local governments, to implement an ambitious plan to build thousands of housing units around the country. It has also adopted the "National Strategy for Quality of Life 2031," which aims to create a more coherent community.

"To build the capacities of the youth, the UAE Cabinet has adopted a resolution to promote the participation of youth in the boards of government institutions and companies. The government has also launched initiatives that aim to develop leadership capacities of the youth and support the small and medium-sized enterprises, SME, of entrepreneurs, as well as enable them to master the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and become involved in the space industry. This year, we accomplished a monumental achievement with the arrival of the first Emirati astronaut to the International Space Station, ISS. What Hazza Al Mansoori achieved represents the first phase of the UAE's ambitious space programme for the next 100 years, which aims to enhance the country's stature as a global platform for space research and projects, to support sustainable development.
"The government is equally keen to preserve our customs, traditions and national heritage. Reviving and celebrating our heritage and passing them on to future generations is a priority of the UAE. Our heritage is the cornerstone of our identity, an inspiration, the driving force of our journey, and the bridge connecting us to the peoples of the world.

"Dear esteemed citizens,

"In the UAE, economic growth indicators, although very important, have never been measured by the amount of success made in the goods produced or services offered, but by the quality of life and the added value offered. They are also measured by the balanced and sustainable development and by the job opportunities created and training provided. Our goal is to make our country the best and most secure place for all community members.

"We also view Emiratisation as a true measure for success. By Emiratisation, we do not mean the mechanism for employing nationals, but rather a tool for enabling. Last September, the Cabinet approved a national fund to support and train Emirati jobseekers and made legal amendments to ensure Emiratis in the private sector receive a pension as they would in the public sector.

"We also look at security as a key measure for economic and social development. There is no development without sustainable security, without the rule of law and without respect for human rights. In this respect, we thank the Ministry of Interior and all its law enforcement and security teams, for the great role played in safeguarding people's rights.

"Thanks to this perfect planning, our country has become a global economic force and an attractive hub for business and investments. To back this up, the government has allowed up to 100 per cent foreign ownership of some companies operating in 13 sectors.

"My sons and daughters,

"You have achieved the goals of the initiative we launched to mark 2019 as the 'Year of Tolerance'. You have been instrumental in making your country a global role model for tolerance and sent a strong message to the world that people can peacefully co-exist if they adopted tolerance as a way of life. Tolerance is a key value in our religion of Islam. It does not mean submission or leniency, but it helps ensure justice, impartiality, acceptance of others and equal opportunities under internationally recognised laws, rights and freedoms.

"Since foundation, our country has adopted a foreign policy that is based on active engagement in international efforts to improve people's lives, to protect environment, to achieve sustainable development goals, and to eliminate poverty, hunger, diseases and illiteracy. Our foreign policy also encourages engagement in international efforts to counter terrorism and extremism and to support peaceful settlements. Our country has come a long way in promoting the culture of peace, providing aid and alleviating suffering of the needy.

"We salute the Emirati diplomacy, represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and we appreciate their efforts in maintaining our country's image and sovereignty. Thanks to their efforts, the UAE passport the UAE ranks first in the world, an achievement that demonstrates the stature we have reached and the respect we enjoy at both regional and international levels.

"My sons and daughters,

"Our country is steadily striding towards a brighter future, driven by gratitude to the founding fathers, loyalty to the leadership, adherence to the Islamic and Arabic values and identity. We are proud of our servicemen who sacrificed their lives to defend their country, to deter terrorism and to safeguard peace. We will continue our efforts to modernise our Armed Forces and develop their capabilities. We thank our soldiers and commanders for their dedication and we thank the citizens and resident of the UAE for their support.

"May Allah the Almighty keep you safe and bring joy and happiness to you all."

Spirit of the Union that runs through us have rendered the word 'impossible' void: Sheikh Mohammed
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has said that the Spirit of the Union that runs through the people of the UAE, have rendered the word 'impossible' void, "and with that, we have turned making achievements to a way of life, and made progress a part of our plans and actions."
In a statement to Nation Shield magazine on the occasion of the 48th UAE National Day, Sheikh Mohammed added, "We will continue to deliver the future for our generations to come. The occasion we are celebrating today is teeming with a myriad of lessons that we have learned from our Founding Fathers, who instilled in us an ambition and will to cope with the changes in the world and to utilise our full potential.

Below is the statement in full:
"Today, the accomplishments of 48 years lay before us, as we remember with all gratitude our Founding Father, the symbol of our union, the founder of our renaissance, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his life companion, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, as well as the rest of the Founding Fathers.
"With their memory, we see a vision that led to the birth of our nation, and an ambition which laid the foundations for a country strengthened by its sons and daughters and its Armed Forces and security services. A nation which champions sustainable development, and embodies the values of unity, loyalty and cohesion.
"The UAE 'model' has shifted from one condition to another, and from age to another, and we have established progress and opened up our aspirations to wider horizons, and for our future generations the best opportunities.
"As Emiratis bask in pride and satisfaction with the achievements and successes of their country, I am sure that they also carry a full sense of responsibility for preserving, developing and growing those achievements.
"The Spirit of the Union that runs through us, have rendered the word 'impossible' void in our dictionary, and with that, we have turned making achievements to a way of life, and made progress a part of our plans and actions.
"We will continue to deliver the future for our generations to come. The occasion we are celebrating today is teeming with a myriad of lessons that we have learned from our Founding Fathers, who instilled in us an ambition and will to cope with the changes in the world and to utilise our full potential.
"As the dawn of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) falls on us, we have launched an ambitious strategy that positions the UAE as a model for interactive cities, using Artificial Intelligence to achieve sustainability and accelerate our transition to a knowledge-based economy.
"From an early stage, we realised the importance of space sciences and made it clear that those who won't establish their foothold in space would find it hard on earth. And out of this perspective we have established relevant legislation to groom Emirati cadres capable of delivering the future. We've managed to manufacture the first entirely Emirati-made satellite and celebrated our sons' launch to the International Space Station. And now our young Emiratis are in the final stages of launching Probe Hope next year.
"We have many future plans, which cannot be listed in full here. I suffice here to highlight our clean energy efforts through our trendsetting initiatives, such as Masdar. The UAE leads in its sustainability efforts and use of various forms of renewable energy. The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 targets an energy mix combining renewable, clean energy sources and nuclear power to meet the Emirates' economic requirements and environmental goals.
"As we celebrate today the 48th anniversary of our Union, we launch substantial future-oriented plans and initiatives underpinned by a robust research infrastructure represented in our AI Labs and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.
"As to our national economy, we have made great strides thanks to our resilient and flexible legislation, and public-private partnerships transparency and accountability. Despite the global economic slowdown, our non-oil trade is growing and our ecommerce is advancing as well at an annual average rate of 23 percent. Our national economy enjoys an advanced ranking at the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2019, published by the Swiss-based International Institute for Management Development.
"We have made great strides as well at the level of political empowerment with 337,738 having participated in the latest parliamentary elections. We have strengthened women's empowerment as part of our efforts to achieve gender equality, with Emirati women fulfilling their responsibilities at all levels.
"With our Year of Tolerance drawing to a close this month, tolerance will continue to be an integral part of our social fabric, beliefs and values. We will continue our role in strengthening human fraternity between the followers of different faiths and religions.

"We will maintain our ranking as the world's largest donor of official development aid, relative to our gross national income.
"As we are getting fully geared for Expo 2020 Dubai next year, we will seize the opportunity to showcase to the entire world our best potential across all fronts. We will show to the whole world that our country has become a role model for development and progress. We will spare no efforts to advancing our country and will never hesitate to transfer our experience and knowledge to our brothers and friends.
"On our National Day, I extend my greetings to my brother President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and my brother His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. And I assure all UAE people that our achievements in 2020 will outpace those made in 2019 and will bring us closer to achieving the ambitious goals of the UAE Vision 2021."

'UAE's tremendous progress made possible by our unity, effort and great sacrifices', says Mohamed bin Zayed
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has said that the UAE is entering the future with "optimism", and "our belief that we are on the right path has been reaffirmed," adding in his statement on the occasion of the UAE's 48th National that the country sets "no limits to its aspirations and trusts in its abilities, potential and unity."
In a statement to Nation Shield magazine, the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince added that the "UAE's tremendous progress has been made possible by our unity, effort and great sacrifices."
Below is the statement in full:
Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Another glorious national anniversary has dawned: the 48th anniversary of the union of our dear nation. The UAE's achievements have touched the sky and fill our hearts with pride. The UAE is setting new standards in progress, regionally and internationally. Our country sets an example regarding the will to excel in all fields. The UAE is entering the future with optimism, and our belief that we are on the right path has been reaffirmed. Our country sets no limits to its aspirations and trusts in its abilities, potential and unity. It bets on its children, whom it regards as its most precious asset and an assurance of a bright future. The UAE opens its doors to cooperate with all those who desire the prosperity of mankind.
"On the 48th National Day we recall the past with its challenges as well as the sacrifices of our forefathers. We look at the present with our current achievements and the future with our hopes and ambitions to know where we stand and where we are heading.
"The message I send to the people of the UAE on this great day for our nation is that the UAE's tremendous progress has been made possible by our unity, effort and great sacrifices. We will continue to flourish thanks to the devotion and dedication of our sons. We will continue our success story by holding on to the means of excellence and progress in all fields in a world that is rapidly evolving with ever-expanding challenges. You have been entrusted with a great responsibility that of your country so protect it always, fill it with pride at your achievements, and hoist its flag up high.
"I say to parents, tell your children and grandchildren the story of this great nation and the struggle of our forefathers as well as their unstinting faith in our values and their sacrifices. Tell them about the long and difficult road that we walked until we arrived at the progress we see around us today. Sow in their hearts and minds love for our homeland and remind them that the UAE is, and will remain, strong and pioneering thanks to its children.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"On this historic day, we remember everyone who lay a brick in building our homeland and all those who toiled for the UAE to attain the progress and prosperity that is the envy of the whole world. We remember everyone who spilt their blood so that our flag would continue to fly high and who sacrificed so that we could live in security, stability and unity. We remember our martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for their homeland and set an example for the rest of the world. We remember the Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed and his brothers, the Founding Leaders, who were devoted to their goal and mission and remained true to themselves and to their people. They did not seek personal glory nor did they have any vested interest. They did not abandon their dream of unity despite tremendous challenges and created a pioneering Arab unitary experience for others to follow.
"Today, when one contemplates the wars and conflicts in our region and the problems that continue to plague many regional countries we greatly appreciate the significance of what was achieved here on December 2, 1971. We remember the great leaders who achieved the dream of unity. Our unity has been the fence that has protected our nation and preserved its gains. It is the fortress that has withstood regional and international dangers and will continue to be the umbrella under which we strive to achieve our goals.
"On this memorable occasion, the covenant for unity and solidarity will be renewed under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The UAE continues to set an example for how the people can wholeheartedly support their leadership. The UAE continues to serve as a beacon of unity and determination in the region and the wider world.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Our citizens have been and will remain our top priority in all programmes and development plans at present and in future. Our Founding Fathers created a nation of unity for the development, well-being and happiness of all its citizens. The words of Sheikh Zayed: "Wealth is not money or oil. Wealth lies in men. Money is of no use if it is not dedicated for serving the people", remain the compass that guides us. His words provide the basic reference for all our development plans and help us measure the limits of our success and realisation of our goals.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"On this glorious day, we salute our brave Armed Forces that have been and will remain the backbone of our national security and the symbol of the nation's power and unity. Our Armed Forces have proved to be the shield of the nation, and the preserver of its gains. They have also ensured stability and peace in the region and are an active player in every regional and international effort to confront threats to regional and global security. The UAE has always been an advocate of peace and cooperation against conflicts and wars that drain resources and undermine the right of people to development and progress.
"We also applaud all branches of the security services; they keep a watchful eye on the nation's security, provide reassurance and create a safe and stable environment so that development can take place. We salute its dedicated men who work day and night to preserve the UAE's image as an oasis of stability and security in the region and the wider world.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"The UAE is a pioneer in sustainable development and has a clear strategic vision for the future that leaves nothing to chance. The country relies on planning, studies, initiatives and the belief that the future is being created now, and that those who fail to prepare for it will find themselves marginalised.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Thanks to our pioneering development, our stable, tolerant and open society, and our modern infrastructure, the UAE has become an attractive destination for international investment and business. Young people from across the world seek to work and live here. The UAE is ranked very highly in indices for regional and global competitiveness and human development. It is also highly regarded for its vision and development aspirations and has established international economic and trade partnerships to boost the UAE's development and increase prosperity of it citizens.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Each year, as we celebrate National Day we celebrate our achievements and pioneering projects that add to our success story. During 2019, the UAE created history by sending out the first Emirati into space. The UAE space project opened new frontiers for the country in September by sending out the first Emirati astronaut to the International Space Station. With space opening up for the UAE, we, the sons of Zayed, hope to send a mission to Mars and build a human settlement there.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Soon, the UAE will operate the first nuclear reactor to produce nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, making it the first Arab country to do so. It is exploring the future of energy and seeks to promote renewable energy to ensure sustainable development for future generations.
"Next year, the UAE will be the focus of the world with Expo 2020 Dubai, the first World Expo to be hosted in the Middle East and North Africa region. This testifies to the world's confidence in UAE's ability to organise major international events successfully, and lead global development, construction and peace initiatives.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"The UAE has been and will continue to be a force for stability, peace, development, goodwill and solidarity worldwide. In this context, it has the highest proportion of foreign aid to GDP in the world.
"The UAE has played a leading role in confronting extremist ideology and the forces behind it through an institutionalised and organised movement that enjoys worldwide support. It believes that religious, sectarian and ethnic hatred threaten human coexistence and undermine peace and stability. Not only does our nation offer a striking example of tolerance and coexistence among many different nationalities belonging to various religions, races and cultures, but it also works regionally and internationally to promote tolerance and dialogue among people through institutional effort. The Human Fraternity Document signed during the February 2019 visit to the UAE of His Holiness the Pope and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar has been described as a blueprint to help future generations advance a culture of global mutual respect.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"The UAE is highly regarded on the world stage because of its balanced foreign policy and the wisdom with which it handles regional and international issues. Its relations with countries in the East and the West are strengthening because they are based on trust, mutual respect and common interests. They deepen bilateral strategic partnerships and reinforce political, economic, security and cultural ties.
"The strengthening of UAE's international relations, especially with major world powers, in recent times reflects the trust, respect and appreciation it enjoys abroad. These developments reflect a conscious political vision to expand areas of action to serve the UAE's national interests and enhance its image and its role internationally.
"The UAE has always been, and will remain, on the side of just Arab causes as well as attempts to activate joint Arab action. It will side with its brothers in the face of challenges facing the Arab region, especially dangers posed by armed and terrorist militias and attempts to interfere in the internal affairs of regional countries. The UAE chooses this path based on its responsibilities, as per the approach followed since the reign of Sheikh Zayed.
"Dear brothers, sisters and sons,
"Finally, I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and their brothers, Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the UAE. I also congratulate the great Emirati people on the 48th National Day, praying to God Almighty to preserve our nation's stability, dignity and strength."

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