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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