New tribute paid to Sheikh Zayed

ABU DHABI // The legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan will be fondly remembered today, the fourth anniversary of his death. Sheikh Zayed, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1966 and UAE President from the formation of the Federation on Dec 2 1971 until his death, was loved and respected by Emiratis and expatriates. The founder of the nation was also a widely respected and benevolent Arab and world statesman. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, continues his father's vision and legacy. In tribute, a book on the late Sheikh Zayed will be released today, the state news agency, WAM, reported. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Deputy Prime Minister, has written in the book's preface: "The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan always upheld the principles of benevolence and humanitarian work, and encouraged others all through his life to protect the values of human generosity." The book, whose title will be released today, highlights the visionary leader's humanitarian initiatives and chronicles his efforts to bring peace and help alleviate the suffering of people. Sheikh Hamdan, also the president of the Red Crescent Authority, noted: "Sheikh Zayed never waited to respond at times of need and he put wealth at the disposal of people." He described Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian efforts as having "surpassed all barriers of ethnic, racial and national considerations". The book also narrates how the Zayed Charity initiative, established in 2003, provided health care to thousands of poor people worldwide. Inspired by Sheikh Zayed, medical professionals and paramedics toured several countries in the past five years to provide free medical care for heart ailments and other diseases. Residents have been observing the anniversary of Sheikh Zayed's death by offering prayers and paying tribute to the late President. Emiratis and expatriates will also pay homage to Sheikh Zayed at the 37th UAE National Day celebrations on Dec 2. The life and times of Sheikh Zayed have been widely documented within and outside the Arab world. In August, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, received a copy of a book titled Zayed Genius in Agriculture and Environment at Al Bateen Palace. The book documents the efforts of Sheikh Zayed in agriculture and environment over three decades. It was prepared by Dr Helal Humaid bin Saaed Al-Kaabi, a board member of the Khalifa International Date Palm Award. In June, the Centre for Documentation and Research launched a publication titled Zayed from Challenges to Union to mark its 40th anniversary. It chronicles Sheikh Zayed's achievements between 1946 and 1971. rruiz@thenational.ae