Bill Gates 'surprised and honoured' by medal from Sheikh Mohammed

Billionaire philanthropist thanks Crown Prince after $100 million pledged at Abu Dhabi disease summit

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, pictured with Bill Gates and James 'Chip' Carpenter, son of Jimmy Carter, former US president whoShow more

Bill Gates has thanked Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, for hosting a major disease summit in Abu Dhabi, and expressed his "surprise and honour" at being awarded the UAE's Order of the Federation.

In a tweet to Sheikh Mohammed, the billionaire philanthropist said he looked forward to working to eradicate diseases that could be prevented.

On Wednesday, Sheikh Mohammed and Mr Gates pledged $20 million each towards a $100 million fund to tackle diseases that include river blindness and lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, which afflict millions worldwide.

A new research institute that will develop policies to combat infectious disease was also announced. It will be based in Abu Dhabi.

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