Sheikh Nahyan stands with Lebanon as country marks 72nd anniversary of independence

ABU DHABI // The UAE supports Lebanon against any attempts to destabilise life for its citizens and threaten its unity, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak said on Saturday.

The UAE Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development condemned all attacks that terrorise innocent people and spread violence, in his speech at a ceremony celebrating the 72nd anniversary of Lebanon’s independence.

“We in the UAE are convinced that a strong Lebanon is fundamental for the progress of the whole Arab region,” he said. “This conviction is part of the positive basic values and beliefs that guide the march of the UAE and confirms its pivotal role in the region and the world.”

Sheikh Nahyan expressed his confidence in the ability of the Lebanese people to face challenges, coexist and hope for a better future. “I hope that Lebanon will continue to be strong with its people and rich history and heritage,” he said. “It is important to preserve the noble values and ideals which characterise Lebanon and its people, which have remained vivid and powerful over time. The UAE is keen to develop its relations with other countries and views that the prosperity and stability of all countries in the region is linked to the success of the entire Arab nation.”

He also praised the ties of cooperation between the UAE and Lebanon, which he said reflect positively on the interests of both countries and their peoples, especially in an era filled with political, economic and social challenges.

During the speech, a minute of silence was observed in honour of UAE martyrs.

The ceremony, which was held on the campus of the Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, was attended by Elias Bou Saab, Lebanese Minister of Education and Higher Education, Nihad Al-Mashnouq, Lebanese Minister of Interior, and Hassan Saad, Lebanese Ambassador to the UAE.