'I am proud to be part of Everest peace project'

Dubai: The Palestinian climber who abandoned his bid to climb Mount Everest has said he is "happy" with his achievements in nearly scaling the world's highest peak.

As reported in Gulf News, UAE resident Ali Bushnaq was forced to turn back near to the end of his mission after contracting pneumonia.

It came after months of preparation and training for the 1.95 metre tall Palestinian civil engineer, who had climbed to an altitude of more than 7,000 metres before calling a halt.

Ali was climbing as part of the Everest Peace Project team, which includes two climbers from Israel, David Yifrah and Micha Yaniv.

The rest of the team are scheduled to make the final ascent to the 8,850-metre summit today.

Speaking after returning to the expedition's advanced base camp, Ali put a brave face on his disappointment.

"I am sorry it didn't happen the way we wanted but this is life. I will wait at advanced base camp for my teammates and we will celebrate their success

"I was proud to be part of the Everest Peace Project it was a great experience. I am happy with what I achieved. It is a big milestone in my life," he said.

Ali thanked Gulf News, which has heavily covered the run-up to the expedition and followed his progress closely during the climb.

"I would like to thank all the people who supported me so far. In particular Gulf News, who did a great job of supporting the expedition," he said.

Ali, who is married with three children and has lived in the UAE for more than 30 years, said his thoughts were turning to home.

Before he set off Ali said the only thing his family asked of him was that he "come back in one piece."

He followed their advice earlier this week when he turned back after suffering dizzy spells thought to be partly due to pneumonia.

Ali had earlier slowed his pace of walking and eaten extra food hoping this would help his condition, but instead he felt worse and he decided to abandon the attempt rather than risk his life by continuing.

"I am happy with what I achieved. It is a big milestone in my life."