Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on May 11 praised the handling of COVID-19 pandemic by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, asserting that it has reflected the humanitarian and civilized stance of the UAE government and armed forces in front of the world. The Vice President made the remarks during the opening meeting of the UAE government through video conference. During the opening session of the remote government meeting, Mohammed bin Rashid hailed the efforts of the participants in improving the functioning of the UAE government during the ongoing crisis. The Prime Minister regarded the officials from the federal and local governments team and the "UAE team", calling them to draft a national plan for the quickest post-COVID-19 recovery of the UAE economy. 

Furthermore, economic, social and developmental effects and challenges from the Coronavirus pandemic, reinforcing the preparedness of federal and local sectors and development of an apparatus to handle the global health crisis were some of the agendas discussed in the meeting. The Vice President and Ruler of Dubai asserted that the main aim is not only to protect the health of the people but also to protect the country's economy, achievements and living standards. 

Praising the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prime, the Vice President regarded him as the pride of the country in his speech. 

The meeting also aims to monitor the ongoing developments and administrative response to the repercussions of the global pandemic in different sectors such as economic, social and services. Future ramifications of the disease and ways of boosting the economic system of the country to ensure effective recovery are among the issues covered in the meeting. The officials will also be deliberating on benefiting from experiences of major global economies, exploring new economic and development opportunities and creating new working mechanisms for promoting a future mindset.

The three-day meeting has focused on six key sectors including health, education, economy, food security, society, and the government. Over 100 ministers and government officials along with international economists and specialists will be discussing practical plans and policies for uplifting the UAE economy and developing most relevant tools and methodologies to tackle future challenges posed by the global pandemic.

The three-day meeting, titled "Preparations for the Post-COVID-19 Period," will be attended by over ministers, secretaries-general of executive councils, and officials from over 100 federal and local authorities over the span of time.

WAM