Statesman with a worldwide appeal

The UAE yesterday lost one of its founders, Shaikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who was a unique leader and whose vision contributed to the prosperity and development of a nation that has become a model of stability, progress and tolerance.

He was a leader who shunned the usual façade of authority and preferred to work quietly for the good of his country and people. But he never lost sight of his duty to the Arab and Muslim nations and friendly countries.

As the country mourns the lovable Shaikh Maktoum, known for his generosity and modesty, we will always remember the young leaders who stood beside Shaikh Zayed, the late Shaikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum and their brothers and Rulers of the emirates, during the talks that preceded the establishment of the federation. His vision and wisdom were key factors in the shaping of the newborn nation, which has over the past three decades evolved into a modern country.

His experience, as one of the fathers of the federation, was also an asset the country's new leader, President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, relied on upon the demise of Shaikh Zayed.

The policies of Shaikh Maktoum also transcended national borders to reach out to others and establish exemplary relations with all countries of the world relations based on equality and mutual respect. The name of the UAE, thus, is synonymous with stability, goodwill and generosity. The UAE ship sailed safely and confidently through wars, conflicts and regional disasters for decades under the leadership of the late Shaikh Zayed and Shaikh Maktoum. It remains one of the great supporters of all just causes, particularly the Palestinian cause. Also, poor nations have always acknowledged the support extended by the UAE to alleviate the hardships and suffering of millions of people.

History will also remember Shaikh Maktoum as the leader who oversaw the transformation of Dubai from a tiny city to a cosmopolitan emirate that has become an attractive destination for investors, tourists and highly skilled workers. Today, Dubai is a model of growth and cited as one of the most successful economic experiments of all time.

Shaikh Maktoum will also be remembered for encouraging the interaction in Dubai of many cultures and races. The late leader was an embodiment of tolerance.

Shortly before his sudden departure, Shaikh Maktoum stood by the side of the President and other members of the Supreme Council at their historic December meeting, which endorsed Shaikh Khalifa's plan for political reforms, giving citizens the chance to take part in the decision-making process. Shaikh Maktoum, man of the people all his life, could not leave a more lasting legacy.