Abu Dhabi, 1st Dec. 2008 -- HH Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Eastern Region, said the historical achievements of the UAE during 37 years of the Federation do speak for themselves.

"The proclamation of the UAE federation stands out as the most important landmark in the history of the nation", he added.

"December 2nd is the greatest day in the history of the UAE because it marks the real birth of our country and the great epic which yielded a great solid federation", he noted.

He congratulated H. H Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, H. H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and their brethren, Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates on the happy occasion.

He affirmed that the UAE leaders and people had pledged to forge ahead for more achievements and gains on the day which marks the unification of wills and the determination of UAE people to build a strong country under the wise stewardship of President H. H Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"This march towards progress and prosperity which will continue with the will of God under the prudent leadership of President Shaikh Khalifa", he said.

"37 years ago, some had doubts that the newly born Federation, which was created amid harsh circumstances, would vanish. No one could imagine that the small state would one day become a great prosperous country", he remarked.

He said under the wise stewardship of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Al Nahyan, the UAE is enjoying prosperity and growth despite the global financial crisis and the hard economic realities around the world.

The UAE, he added, continues the march which started 37 years ago and "it is harnessing all resources in favour of its citizens to provide them with high standard of living." He noted that the achievements the UAE has made are not confined to its people. "Rather, the UAE has always been committed to helping Arab brothers and contributing to development projects in other Arab countries." The UAE, he added, continues the tradition of extending a helping hand to all victims of crises and disasters.

"The UAE follows a peaceful approach that mandates the participation in any efforts to push development in Arab countries.. without interference in the internal affairs of any other sovereign states. This approach is what made the UAE respectful and trustworthy among the nations of the world," he stressed. (WAM- MMYS WAM/TF)