On the occasion of UAE's 49th National Day, President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirmed that the nation is focused on developing appropriate strategies aimed at supporting remote work in the aftermath of the Coronavirus pandemic. He added that the UAE has prioritised food security, renewable energy, youth protection and women empowerment as essential elements to the growth of the country.

Sheikh Khalifa also asserted that the UAE is keen on raising a future generation of qualified Emiratis and attracting accomplished foreign talent. On the occasion, the President also urged the UAE community to be optimistic about the future and provide ideas and visions to contribute to the efforts of the leadership aimed at achieving progress across all sectors.

"The UAE will become the first in the world in global indicators for well-being, happiness and quality of life by 2071," President Sheikh Khalifa said in a statement to Nation Shield, the UAE Armed Forces magazine, on the occasion National Day.

As per a WAM report, the President also noted that Emiratis believe in "looking to the future with optimism, anticipating its horizons, and pre-planning its paths."

Addressing the nation's citizens, Sheikh Khalifa also underlined the significance of building a progressive future, adding that it requires a clear vision, courage in decision-making and early anticipation of opportunities and challenges. In this view, the UAE has been focusing on key drivers such as government development, digital economy, scientific research, smart systems, advanced technology and artificial intelligence for its future success.

Speaking about the achievements of the UAE economy, the President lauded its resilience and high capabilities to confront economic shocks and fluctuations along with global challenges.

With the launch of Hope Probe to Mars, the UAE has gained a leading position in the space sector. In addition, the nation has taken advanced steps in the areas of nuclear and renewable energy with the establishment of the Barakah plant for the production of peaceful nuclear energy.

The UAE emerged successful in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and containing the virus with the help of its effective national sterilisation programme and proactive precautionary measures, the President added.

He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic unveiled the efficiency of the UAE's healthcare system even as the nation faced significant losses in terms of life and finances. UAE leadership's dynamic response to the pandemic helped the nation to progress towards remote education and work.

In conclusion, the President extended his deepest appreciation to the dedicated frontline workers; for properly managing the crisis; for a conclusive response to the pandemic; for protecting nation's security and its economy; for safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the community; and for ensuring the sustainability of the educational process in the country.