Abu Dhabi, Dec. 01st, 2008 --"The World had witnessed the birth of new nation 37 years ago. Since then the UAE has grown steadily to become a unique success unity role model", UAE Foreign Affairs Minister HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, made an statement to Dira Al Watan Magazine, on advent of the 37th anniversary of the UAE Federation.

He greeted President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Members of Supreme Council Their Highnesses Rulers of emirates, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and UAE people, on advent of the 37th anniversary.

"Associated with huge accomplishments, this anniversary is coupled with the memory of the founder of the UAE the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who had persevered to keep the country intact and progressing", Abdullah remarked.

He added that the UAE today occupies an enviable position due to balanced wise policies in approaching regional and international issues, indicating that "these policies were outlined by the late leader Sheikh Zayed. The UAE's foreign policy is based on transparency, dialogue, peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, non interference in other countries affairs, respect of sovereignty and unity of other countries, as well as resolution of conflicts amicably in the light of the principles outlined by United Nations, international and regional organisations".

Sheikh Abdullah said the UAE has established diplomatic relations with 149 countries across the globe and the embassies accredited in the country rose to 119, of which
81 of them are resident embassies and 38 non resident embassies. The UAE also hosts 64 consulates and 12 offices for the regional and international organisations. The number of UAE embassies abroad are 54 resident embassies, 44 embassies are non resident, 9 consulates and the two permanent representative offices in New York and Geneva. (WAM/MN)