Abu Dhabi: Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, has reiterated the UAE’s support for the Palestinian cause as it is a central issue of all Arabs.
Shaikh Nahyan was addressing the first charity and auction gala organised by Bethlehem University in Abu Dhabi on Thursday to raise funds for its library.
In his address to the audience, read on his behalf by Shaikh Mohammad Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Shaikh Nahyan said the event in his view embodies the fraternal ties between the UAE and Palestine under the wise leadership of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which supports the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to a stable, secure life in their independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
Drawing attention to the achievements made by Bethlehem University since it was founded 40 years ago, Shaikh Nahyan said the Palestinian university has evolved today into a progressive institution embracing latest practices and thoughts and committed to instilling good morals in its graduates so as to serve their community and humanity at large.
Shaikh Nahyan noted that the role of the Palestinian national universities is an integral part of the Palestinian struggle for freedom, dignity and independence.
That role, which is associated with the reality and ambitions of the steadfast Palestinian people, he added, signifies the full confidence in the promising future of Palestine and the ability of its brave people to achieve all national goals and objectives.
Concluding his address, Shaikh Nahyan expressed the hope that the university would pursue its successful progress despite obstacles and snags placed by the brutal Israeli occupation.
On his part, Vice-Chancellor Peter Bray expressed thanks to the UAE leadership, Shaikh Nahyan and his son for their kind patronage of the event and their support for the university.
Khairy Al Aridi, Palestinian Ambassador to the UAE, embassy staff and Palestinian residents in the UAE attended the gala.
