Foundation joins forces with Virgin

In a move to tackle poverty worldwide, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charity Foundation signs a co-operation deal with the charity arm of Sir Richard Branson's empire.

ABU DHABI // In a move to tackle poverty worldwide, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charity Foundation yesterday signed a co-operation deal with the charity arm of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin empire. The agreement with Virgin Unite, the non-profit side of Virgin Group, will see the two bodies combine forces on education and health initiatives, which the state news agency, WAM, reported would help create thousands of jobs among disadvantaged young people.

It was signed in Abu Dhabi by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE and chairman of the foundation, and Sir Richard. Sheikh Mansour said: "The United Arab Emirates is determined to improve the lives of people all over the world and has already contributed significant funds through the Khalifa Foundation. "We are delighted to be announcing this partnership with Richard Branson and Virgin Unite who share our passion for creating opportunities to help people lift themselves out of poverty."

The Khalifa Foundation has already taken part in humanitarian projects in 35 countries, and Sir Richard praised its "brilliant work in helping to alleviate poverty and suffering all over the world". Details of the co-operation will be worked out over the coming months. * The National