Celebrating a 47-year-long history of shared interests

Our readers have their say about UAE National Day and the death of George HW Bush

Two Etihad and Emirates planes, followed by the Al Fursan aerobatic team, perform a display show over the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to celebrate the UAE's 47th National Day and the Year of Zayed, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)
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On behalf of all Pakistanis living in the UAE, I would like to extend my felicitations on the 47th National Day.

Today, the UAE stands proudly in the comity of nations of peace, progress and good governance. It has made spectacular strides to emerge as a world class hub for trade, finance, tourism and transport.

This impressive growth has been made possible by fostering tolerance, inclusive economic development and innovation.

We join our Emirati brethren in paying tribute to Sheikh Zayed, whose vision and sagacious policies transformed this country into a land of peace, stability, co-existence and modernisation.

Pakistan and the UAE have a long history of close and friendly relations.

Since the birth of the UAE, our ancient kinship has found expression in the establishment of a dynamic partnership, ranging from multi-faceted economic and commercial relations to close co-operation in areas of security and defence.

Currently, the UAE is Pakistan’s largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major source of investment.

In addition, high-level visits between the two countries have been a key element of this friendship.

The recent two visits of Prime Minister Imran Khan to the UAE in as many months underscore the strength and substance of the special relationship.

During the visits, both sides reiterated their resolve to transform existing special relations into a strategic long-term economic partnership.

Moazzam Khan, Pakistani ambassador to the UAE

Whether or not you agreed with Bush, his loss will be felt

The death of former US president George HW Bush is a great loss to American politics.

He served in the navy, then entered the oil industry before turning to politics.

Even though he served only one term, unlike his son, he was applauded for his foreign policies.

After his retirement from politics, his philanthropic gestures towards people affected by the Asian tsunami, the Haitian earthquake and hurricane victims in Texas were laudable.

He leaves a great legacy to the American people. May his soul rest in peace.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Whether he was bad or good is not my concern but people should show respect.

Muhannad Alblooshi, Ras Al Khaimah