UAE Embassy in Washington, DC Celebrates Country’s 40th National Day

Washington, DC (1 December 2011) – In honor of the nation’s 40th National Day, the United Arab Emirates Embassy in Washington, DC welcomed guests at a gala reception that honored the life and vision of the late founder and first President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The event was hosted by UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba at the new headquarters of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP).

The UAE Embassy event featured a commemorative exhibit on the life of Sheikh Zayed, and the principles that guided the UAE’s development into a modern, progressive nation. Honored guests included top ranking US government officials, Ambassadors from around the world, distinguished academics, business executives, and prominent members of the Washington, DC press corps.

“This is a proud day for all Emiratis as we celebrate the significant progress our nation has made in just four decades,” said Ambassador Al Otaiba. “Sheikh Zayed’s vision has guided the UAE’s development, and his legacy is our modern society, which is a growing center for innovation and commerce, and magnet of opportunity for people.” The UAE Embassy chose to hold the 40th National Day event at USIP to mark the nation’s commitment to peace and charity. Sheikh Zayed held these values in high regard, and they are shared with USIP through the organization’s mission to manage international conflict without violence. During remarks delivered at the event, Ambassador Al Otaiba highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between the UAE and United States, and noted that the US was one of the first countries to recognize the federation forty years ago. “The US has been an important ally of the UAE since its founding in 1971,” said Ambassador Al Otaiba. “From a shared commitment to regional security, to growing economic, trade and cultural connections, our partnership has never been stronger.”

Ambassador Al Otaiba also congratulated UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the Federation's other leaders on the occasion of the UAE's 40th National Day.

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