Communique of Bishop Paul Hinder on the Election of the New President of the UAE

Abu Dhabi.
 

With great honour and respect, I greet His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on his election as the President of the United Arab Emirates. His Highness’ leadership and statesmanship has become well known during the past several decades. As the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, His Highness carried the honour of the nation to greater heights. The invitation and welcoming of His Holiness Pope Francis to Abu Dhabi is His Highness’ great gift to the Catholic people in the Country. 

His Highness demonstrated his care and able leadership during the trying challenges of the Covid-19 Pandemic. I remember His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s words at the outbreak of the pandemic, “Our people, both citizens and residents are our assets, and we will do everything to protect them”. His Highness’ love for the people living in this country and his service to humanity in combating the Covid-19 pandemic is praiseworthy. I also remember with gratitude His Highness’ initiative in helping the less privileged of the less fortunate countries in the world to face the challenges of the pandemic through the aid that the UAE was able to provide. 

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has shouldered the responsibility of the government during the prolonged health complications of the Late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (May his soul Rest in Peace). It is beyond doubt that under the able leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates will reach greater heights and continue to be the nation of tolerance, peace and joy for all. 

I congratulate His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his election as the President of UAE and promise my prayer and spiritual support that he may successfully fulfil his great responsibility towards this nation. May God grant His protection to His Highness and give him the wisdom from above. The Catholic Church in the UAE, as it has always done, promises prayers for His Highness’ health and prosperity.

Sincerely,

Bishop Paul Hinder OFM Cap
Apostolic Administrator of Southern Arabia
(Catholic Church in UAE, Oman and Yemen)