Dr. Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Speaker of Federal National Council, FNC, has said that Flag Day represented the Emirati renaissance and the glory achieved by the nation through its loyal nationals who made the UAE a beacon of light in the world, as well as a model of growth, civilisation and development, based on wise and long-term vision and sustainable plans.

Commenting on the upcoming Flag Day celebrations, the FNC Speaker went on to say, "This day reflects the values of unity, togetherness and the building of the nation through the perseverance of its founding fathers, whose vision exceeded the limits of the present to foresee the future. On this occasion, we raise the flag and express our love and appreciation to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, The Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, for their national efforts and sustained initiatives to raise the stature of the nation in the world."

Al Qubaisi highlighted the fact that the Flag Day celebrations, which are held each year under the slogan 'Raise it high to remain glorious', reflect the path of achievements and the development of generations who work hard to continue the journey towards a bright future, guided by a leadership that had confidence in the capacities of their people and provided them with all the facilities to achieve, excel and innovate to fulfil their duties towards the nation.

"We are witnessing today the continuity of a national renaissance thanks to the unity of our wise leadership and the loyal people to write new chapters in the national history and accomplish new achievements that will defy the impossible," Al Qubaisi added.

"We pledge to raise high the flag of the UAE, protect the achievements of the nation, stick to the original values of the UAE, and do our best to serve our people," she added.

"As we celebrate this precious national day, we stand in appreciation and respect for the sacrifices of our martyrs, the heroes of the Armed Forces, who presented their lives to raising our flag high. Their sacrifices increase our strength and persistence to stand by our friends and brothers around the world," she emphasised.

She concluded by saying that the Emirati people were proud of the journey of empowerment, led by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as the UAE had become one of the best models of civilised and human advancement in the fields of human rights and fundamental freedom, judiciary, justice and equality without discrimination on the basis of gender, race, religion and language.

"It has become a leading country in development by foreseeing the future indexes, and in all areas of economic and social development, as well as in the use of advanced technologies."