August 1966 was a turning point for the people of the UAE. The people moved from an age of darkness and backwardness into a new age characterised by a distinguished leader. As a result of his wise, clear vision, the UAE's people, who had long suffered painful living and political conditions, were able to enjoy a better future and a luxurious life. He has rescued his people and country from arduous conditions and the absence of a clear vision, and Sheikh Zayed has put the UAE train on the right track to security, peace and socio-economic and political stability.
In August 36 years ago, Allah, The Great and The Almighty, bestowed upon us H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE President and the Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, may Allah Protect him, to lead his people to glory, freedom, modernity and decency. In August, Sheikh Zayed ascended the throne as Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Allah has granted him intelligence, wisdom, experience and generosity, which have touched every aspect of life in a society that was in grave need of a leader who is inspired, faithful and loyal to his people, country and religion. These characteristics are personified in Sheikh Zayed, who paid great attention to man before making any move to build a society that needed housing, food and the infrastructure for educational, cultural, health and sporting establishments as well as the other necessities of modern life that every nation seeks.
Sheikh Zayed has, since he shouldered the responsibility of leadership, used a large percentage of the income from Abu Dhabi's oil exports to create an educated, qualified citizen who loves his nation and faith. Due to this great care, schools and institutes were accorded great attention in the first phase of construction, thus ensuring a good foundation for a generation capable of participating in comprehensive modern development.
The progress has been achieved in Abu Dhabi but also throughout the UAE in all fields of life and at all levels. Every citizen of this country has pride, happiness and confidence in the country's leadership, which has spared no effort, whether mental or financial, to guard national achievements against swindlers and the corrupt. This leadership is represented in H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, who sacrificed everything to build an army armed with faith, will, determination and steadfastness, dependent on its citizens, who are now leading this Arab Islamic army. This army was, in its formation, based on true pan-Arab and humanistic principles to defend and protect the nation's sovereignty, independence and achievements, to guard its security and stability, and to help to establish regional and international peace.
It is a dear anniversary to all of us: it inspires and boosts our confidence in our capabilities and self-reliance in achieving our noble pan-Arab and national objectives. I take this opportunity to extend sincere congratulations to H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on my behalf and on those of my brother Lieutenant-General H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces, and all divisions and officers of the military, and to express loyalty to Sheikh Zayed and to our pan-Arabism and our faith.
May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon you.
WAM
