Abu Dhabi: Egypt occupies a strategic position and is considered the cornerstone of regional stability as it will determine the future of the Arab world in the coming years, Dr Anwar Mohammad Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, said during the National Media Council (NMC) event held in the capital on Tuesday.
“We thank all attendees for visiting the UAE and celebrating with us four decades of prosperity and success. Although UAE has started modestly, it achieved great achievements and big strides in a short period of time. Gas and oil was a treasure for many other countries in the region; however, they couldn’t invest it the right way as the UAE did,” Gargash, who is also Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs, added.
While speaking at the NMC event, Gargash said that the UAE 43rd National Day is a great occasion to celebrate building a successful Arab model. The four-day event, which has welcomed over 100 journalists from all over the world, was also attended by Dr Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, vice-chancellor of UAE University, who gave a speech during the NMC conference.
“There have been a lot of talks about the UAE foreign policies. We look forward to witness more stability and security in the region for the coming years. They are basic needs and essential priorities that should be achieved to provide a decent life for all people in the region, including Syrian refugees and their rights to reside in their home countries,” Gargash explained.
Gargash has also discussed the status of many Arab countries.
“The Arab nation has passed through a very difficult phase during the last three years. I still believe we have few difficult years ahead of us and Arab countries should coordinate with each other to pass them successfully and safely, he added.
Gargash also warned against all forms of terrorism and extremism that might be encouraged through social media channels, schools, universities or media.
“No one is protected against terrorism or extremism; however, the UAE continues to be clear in its decisions and continuing fight against terrorists. Almost 84 terrorism organisations were listed recently. Additionally, all countries should work hard in the battle against Isis [Daesh],” he said.
Gargash has stressed that foreign intervention is not accepted either in the UAE or any other Arab countries.
“We don’t accept any foreign intervention in our policies and other countries should also adopt the same principle. Turkey has no right to interfere in Egypt’s policies and we have made similar statements earlier in this regard. Talking about Iran, we respect it as a country and civilisation; however, UAE will continue its efforts for sovereignty over the three disputed islands,” he explained.
“We can see incredible growth opportunities in Asia, Africa, Europe, China, and Russia and we should invest in them rather than wasting most our time managing disputes and relationships with other countries. The UAE has successfully focused on more economic investments and provided decent living standards for most of its citizens and we are still looking for more,” Gargash said.
