H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed: UAE will not forget sacrifices of its sons.

In a statement marking Commemoration Day, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has said that 30th November reflects a shining moment in the UAE’s history.

"On this day we recall the sacrifices made by our martyrs towards their homeland," he said, adding that the UAE will not forget its sons and daughters.

Sheikh Abdullah went on to say that the UAE stands stronger, adding that the nation’s martyrs have increased the UAE people’s steadfastness and their determination to protect the nation, and pursue its path of progress under the guidance of the wise leadership. He emphasised that future generations will continue to be inspired by the sacrifices made by the nation’s forefathers.

"Commemoration Day allows Emiratis to express their pride for the nation’s heroes who sacrificed their lives for the love of the homeland. Our martyrs are the most remarkable examples of courage, and shall remain forever in our hearts," Sheikh Abdullah said.

"We are also celebrating the 46th year of the Union’s founding. Today, the UAE continues to build upon the achievements of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers, the Founding Fathers. With the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, his brothers, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the support of the nation’s citizens, who assumed their responsibilities with dedication and determination the UAE’s journey of progress and development continues across cultural, economic, political, and social realms," the Minister said.

Sheikh Abdullah added, "The anniversary of the Union is deeply rooted in the hearts and minds of the UAE people, as it is a day marking the birth of a unique and modern nation whose people are among the happiest in the world."

"The UAE continues its path of development, creating an oasis of security, safety, and tolerance," he said, adding that the country’s varied accomplishments are reflected positively in its foreign relations. "The UAE enjoys mutually respectful diplomatic ties in the international arena, building bridges of understanding and cooperation between East and West," he said.

"I would also like to commend our nation’s humanitarian and aid relief missions, that do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race or religion. The UAE continues to work diligently to advance its humanitarian aid programme, established by its Founding Fathers," he continued, noting that the UAE provides relief assistance to conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters and coordinates with international partners to ensure efficient aid distribution.

"The nation’s accomplishments instil a sense of pride in our people, but also places great responsibilities on us," he said. "We all need to exert more efforts to continue this journey of success and progress, to raise the UAE’s standing even further, across global arenas."

Sheikh Abdullah concluded by extending his heartfelt congratulations to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, as well as Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the people of the UAE on the 46th National Day, asking Allah Almighty to preserve the nation’s security and stability.