Abu Dhabi: Hundreds of community members, delegates and ambassadors attended the Egyptian National Day, which commemorates the 54th anniversary of the Egyptian Revolution, when Egyptian self-rule was restored for the first time in 1,400 years.
The event held on Wednesday at the Abu Dhabi Rotana Beach Hotel, was hosted by the Egyptian Embassy, and has been celebrated in the UAE for the past 36 years [since 1972].
Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade were present along with various prominent figures, delegates and ministers. The evening started off with a short speech by the Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE, Mohammad Sa'ad Obaid, who spoke about the strong ties between the two countries.
"I cannot go on to describe the diversified relationship Egypt has with the UAE because it's endless, and both countries are witnessing immense strength and closeness year by year. I am happy to see such a diversified crowd ... on this special day and am grateful that you can all celebrate July 23 with us today," said the ambassador in his speech. There are currently 250,000 Egyptians residing in the UAE, confirmed the ambassador.
Development
In an exclusive interview with Gulf News the ambassador said: "The relationship between the UAE and Egypt has strengthened with time, and this strength should be an example for all countries around the world, especially among Arab countries. With each passing day we witness a new development between Egypt and the UAE, be it in the economy with all the trade ... that has doubled over the years, or in the ongoing infrastructure between the two countries."
UAE investments have increased in Egypt, confirmed the ambassador. "This has positioned the UAE as the top country in terms of foreign trade in Egypt. Enhanced cooperation between the two countries is also witnessed in the growing number of cultural exchanges in music, art and literature, which is growing by the minute."
In addition, added the Information Attache at the Egyptian Embassy, Egyptian people were among the first to reside in the UAE since 1971. Various teachers and doctors held prominent positions and made a difference in society.
The relationship between the UAE and Egypt has strengthened with time, and this strength should be an example for all countries around the world."
