Abu Dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) released a book, titled ‘Words of a leader — Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’, to mark the birth centenary of the late Shaikh Zayed,
Translated from Arabic, the book featuring selected quotes by the Founding Father is available in four languages: English, French, German and Spanish, with Chinese, Indian and Russian translations expected soon, said a press release issued by the DCT Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
Coinciding with the Year of Zayed, the publishing of this special title in four languages comes in conjunction with the 10th edition of Al Ain Book Fair, which is being organised by DCT Abu Dhabi at the Al Ain Convention Centre from September 23 to October 2.
Mohammad Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Publishing this selection of quotes by the Founding Father in Arabic and four other languages in the Year of Zayed, celebrates his exemplary lifetime of priceless ideals. Drawing on his teachings, we present this book to future generations so that they may learn from his sound and moderate ways. We also present this book to the world offering them the chance to explore the mind of a distinguished leader who managed to harness the simplest resources to build a strong and influential country.”
The selected quotes reveal the depth of Shaikh Zayed’s intellect and comprehensive forward-looking mindset. The Founding Father inspired young people, offering deep insights on his view of the future and the keys to success, while urging them to take action and work tirelessly. He also spoke of and worked towards achieving equality for women in all aspects of life, from leadership to science, leading the UAE to become even greater, socially and intellectually.
The book comprises many speeches and statements made by Shaikh Zayed, focusing on the foundations of sound governance, and on the secret behind a country’s success being to serve its people and further their aspirations. ‘Officials live to serve the people’ is one of the values that underpin his thinking. He often painted the image of the good employee or the virtuous official, calling for the productive employment of the country’s riches and openness to modern science.
Striving to earn the UAE a prestigious position among the greatest nations, Shaikh Zayed pursued a holistic renaissance, encompassing development in all fields and guaranteeing equal rights, from freedom of speech to honouring the dignity of every individual.
His political statements were built on a profound passion for justice, which he kept framed in his belief in coexistence, and accordingly continued to speak against war, advocate intercultural dialogue, and defend the rights of nations suffering injustice.
The Founding Father saw in the prosperity of the UAE and its GGC sister countries an entwined fate that would later engulf the Arab world and other neighbouring countries. He always preached cooperation, and solidarity among all nations towards transcending all differences. He advocated openness and modernity based on authenticity and heritage, which he thought distinguished each country. Most importantly, he shed a light on Islam and its original message of peace, away from hateful and extremist tendencies that some attach to it, whether driven by ignorance or bad intentions.
