MoFA marks National Day

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs marked the 44th anniversary of the UAE National Day with a grand ceremony attended by Mohammed Mir Al Raisi, Ministry's Undersecretary, assistant foreign ministers, heads of foreign diplomatic missions accredited to the UAE and ministry's employees at the ministry premises in Abu Dhabi.

Addressing the audience, Al Raisi said, ''While we are celebrating the 44th anniversary of the UAE National Day, the State is progressing ahead with confident, steady strides guided by wisdom and willpower. The UAE development drive is following in the steps of the founding fathers, primarily the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, and under the able leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of Emirates. This march of progress is being helped by the loyal sons of the nation, who are the mainstay of building the country and ensuring its development to take it towards more developmental, economic, political and social achievements.'' ''Achievements, success and progress of our State didn't happen in vacuum or by chance; rather, these were a culmination of a visionary leadership, and tireless and diligent work,'' he added.

"Thanks to the commitment of our wise leadership, the UAE has established strong and solid relations with various countries of the world, based on coexistence, tolerance and mutual respect, thereby gaining confidence and respect of the international community,'' he said.

The audiences was treated to folkloric and artistic performances and were served Emirati traditional foods.