UAE well positioned to build knowledge-based economy: Mohammed bin Zayed 

(MENAFN - Emirates News Agency (WAM)) The UAE is steadily striding towards a knowledge-based economy, driven by diversification and development of capabilities, thanks to the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, said Gen.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

In a statement made to Dira Al Watan (Nation's Sheild) magazine to mark the 41st national day anniversary, Sheikh Mohammed said the 2nd of December of every year was an opportunity to ponder the nation's rich history and the magnificent transformation the country has made.

"We remember the struggle of the founding fathers and builders of the nation and their relentless efforts for a better tomorrow. We remember resolute and devoted leaders who focused on realising their people's aspirations for a modern nation that sprang from the arid desert," he said.

Sheikh Mohammed said the miracle was achieved when the founding generation joined hands with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and relied on the national human capital, brothers and friends.

"It is an opportunity to celebrate and to look at the huge achievements made since the foundation and the remarkable leaps in healthcare, education and empowerment of women." Sheikh Mohammed urged the citizens to work harder to realise Sheikh Khalifa's vision for empowerment in all fields.

"We should all shoulder our national duties and responsibilities in serving our country and our people, guided by the principles of our constitution in safeguarding rights, protecting freedom and respecting the law." Sheikh Mohammed said rapid changes in the region and the world require us to adopt a firm strategy to enhance regional and international peace and security.

"The UAE has placed a top priority for world peace and stability, offering full support to the United Nations and the Security Council in resolving crises, utilising different forums to promote political, economic, commercial, cultureal and scientific cooperation and calling for respecting nation's sovereignty, non intervention in other countries internal affairs, and resolving disputes peacefully." Sheikh Mohammed underlined the decisions and initiatives made recently by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, including granting citizenship to people born to Emirati mothers, establishing a fund to settle unpaid loans of the citizens and the 'Absher' initiative, aimed at providing more jobs to UAE citizens.

"Such moves reflect the leader's keenness for the welfare of the citizens. They are yet another example of the great attention he gives to his people." Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE citizens must work together to confront challenges threats to the country's security and stability and to safeguards the achievements.

"We renew our loyalty to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and our pledge to work harder to meet the aspirations of our citizens for further progress and prosperity."