The United Arab Emirates has deepened its commitment to Africa by pursuing development initiatives, technological innovation and humanitarian programmes across the continent. Saud Rashid Al-Hajilan, first Vice President of the Asian-African Parliamentary Council and President of the International Federation of Asian and African Trade Unions, made this observation while marking Union Era Day.
Al-Hajilan commended the UAE's influential standing on regional and global stages, citing its approach of thoughtful diplomacy paired with humanitarian work. He highlighted the country's unwavering focus on advancing security, stability, dialogue and collaboration between nations.
Union Era Day marks a defining moment in UAE history and honours the vision of the late Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al-Hajilan said. The late founding leader and his peers established a union that has evolved into an international benchmark for unity, growth and stability.
Under current president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the nation builds on this legacy by strengthening its worldwide influence through aid work and active engagement in peacebuilding efforts. The country channels this approach into sustainable development that reflects its foundational values.
This commitment shows clearly in the UAE's expanding development ties with Africa, where it pursues stronger trade relationships and economic links. The country invests heavily in robust infrastructure, medical systems, schooling, clean energy and food production across partner nations.
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development manages sizeable infrastructure schemes that boost regional links, drive economic expansion and raise living standards in receiving countries. These projects span multiple sectors and benefit millions of people.
A $1 billion artificial intelligence initiative launched by the UAE reinforces this pledge to the continent further. The scheme backs AI-driven projects throughout African countries while bolstering digital systems, upgrading public administration and lifting productivity levels to drive sustainable advancement and tech-powered expansion.
Al-Hajilan offered his congratulations to the UAE's leaders and citizens on Union Era Day. He expressed hopes that the nation will maintain its trajectory of advancement, prosperity and achievement while deepening its role in serving humanity and building peace regionally and globally.
