UAE is getting stronger: Khalifa (WAM)

ABU DHABI - In an address to the nation on the occasion of the 39th National Day of UAE, President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stressed that the government was working hard to achieve social development, to improve quality of life and to realize its developmental goals through a comprehensive national vision that aims to provide excellent educational standards, adequate housing and world class healthcare services.

"On this auspicious day, we renew confidence in the strength, vitality and resilience of our economy which fully recovered from the aftermath of global financial crisis thanks to the country's stability and security and to the excellent government services, the modern infrastructure, the wise management of resources, the attractive investment environment, the advanced banking system, the promising industrial sector, and the strong foreign trade ties," Shaikh Khalifa said in a speech.

The 2nd of December, the President said, will remain an auspicious day, a special occasion to draw lessons from and a great opportunity to pledge our allegiance to our beloved country.

Shaikh Khalifa paid homage to the late Shaikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, describing him as one of the founding fathers who had contributed vigorously and faithfully to the building of the federation and strengthening its foundation.

He urged the citizens to seek perfection as a necessity of life.

"The perfection of work is a necessity of life. It is an essential element to continue the achievements of our forefathers, through which we can build a capable national workforce, restructure our economy, address the imbalance in the labour market and prepare a well balanced and thriving community."

"As our nation is bracing for its 40th year of achievements, we assure you that we are moving from a strength to more strength, and that we are reaping the fruits sowed by our forefathers in terms of best practices, building the nation's institutional and legislative frameworks, enjoying a strong, diversified and free economy, a modern infrastructure, a sustainable social development, enhanced cultural and societal identity and most importantly, preparing capable and skilful human resources. Human resources are the true wealth of nations

"Our policy is based on the commitment to the principles of the UAE constitution. We have always advocated unity and solidarity to achieve the ultimate goal of modern and prosperous UAE.

Shaikh Khalifa said he was extremely proud of the achievements made by the UAE women who participate vigorously in public life and who are capable of playing more roles.

"The realization of development in the UAE in a future that is less dependent on oil requires focusing on new strategic sectors that utilize energy and resources in promoting highly competitive industries and services," the President added.

He went on to say ;"We will continue our commitments emanating from hosting the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). With the same resolution, we will continue to develop a programme for the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet growing energy requirements while providing rock-solid assurances of highest standards of safety, security, and operational transparency, and in full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other friendly and responsible states.

"The humanitarian diplomacy is one of the main pillars of our foreign policy. Our country will continue its pivotal role in support of the international efforts to confront crises and disasters and to heed cries for help," the President indicated.