UAE leaders pledge allegiance to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed
King Salman, crown prince wish new UAE president every success to serve his people and country
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan was elected UAE president on Saturday, a day after the death of former leader Sheikh Khalifa.
The rulers of the country’s seven emirates took the decision at a meeting held at Al-Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi, state news agency WAM said.
It described the vote as unanimous among the rulers of the country’s emirates, who also pledged their loyalty to the new president.
“We congratulate him and we pledge allegiance to him, and our people pledge allegiance to him,”
Dubai’s Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, said on Twitter after the vote. “The whole country is led by him to take it on the path of glory and honor, God willing,” he added.
Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi said Sheikh Mohammed has played and will continue to play a significant role in the UAE’s development.
“We congratulate President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, and ask Allah Almighty to grant him success and prosperity,” he said. “We affirm our permanent solidarity in serving the nation and preserving its union under his wise leadership.”
King Salman, in his congratulatory cable to the UAE president, said: “We are pleased to express to Your Highness the most sincere fraternal congratulations, praying to Allah Almighty to grant your Highness success, help you, and direct your steps to serve the UAE and its people to continue the process of goodness and development proceeded by your father, Sheikh Zayed Al-Nahyan, and your brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.
“We look forward to continuing work to consolidate the bonds of fraternity and friendship between our two sisterly countries and peoples, and to work together to strengthen relations between the states ... wishing Your Highness constant good health and happiness, and your country further security, stability and prosperity.”
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in a similar cable, wished Sheikh Mohammed “every success to serve his people and country, and continue the march of development and prosperity.” He also wished the president continuous health and happiness, and the UAE security, prosperity and stability.
Global leaders and diplomats are expected to visit Abu Dhabi to pay their respects and meet the new president over the coming days.
US President Joe Biden congratulated Sheikh Mohammed on Saturday and French President Emmanuel Macron is due to arrive in the UAE on Sunday.
Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president, said: “The smooth transition of power in the UAE reflects the strength of institutional work and the advanced standards of governance and stability.”