Abdullah bin Zayed: Emirates Diplomatic Academy to play a central role in the future of the UAE's diplomacy

ABU DHABI, 3rd May 2015 (WAM) --- Reaffirming the UAE's continuous success in enhancing its favourable foreign policy position on a regional and international level, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA), stated that the UAE's distinguished diplomatic achievements are led by the leadership's vision that believes in the importance of strengthening and sustaining ties with nations around the world. Sheikh Abdullah expressed that the UAE has adopted a balanced foreign policy and approach, which is guided by the principles of mutual respect and cooperation with other nations. This approach has enabled the UAE to achieve a distinctive position in the global arena and play a key role in arriving at suitable solutions to international issues, while maintaining its commitment to humanitarian aid and relief. His Highness emphasised that the UAE's proven foreign policy successes complement its accomplishments across all key development sectors. Sheikh Abdullah added that the UAE deploys and commissions innovative technologies and resources, and is committed to investing in its most valuable asset: its citizens, as they are the foundation for national advancement. As part of this commitment, we have set a number of ambitious strategic goals that will solidify the UAE's position among the world's leading countries as outlined by vision 2021. His Highness affirmed that Emirati diplomatic missions abroad play a significant role in communicating the unique characteristics of the UAE to the international community, adding that there is an underlying need to prepare a larger number of distinguished diplomats for foreign service. This can be accomplished by equipping them with the necessary experience and skillset enabling them to effectively adapt to a rapidly changing global environment. His Highness made his comments while highlighting the primary role Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) will play in supporting the strategic foreign policy objectives and aspirations of the UAE. The Academy serves as a key pillar in developing the country's future diplomatic corps and foreign policy thought leadership. EDA is a pioneering integrated foreign policy academic and research centre dedicated to strengthening the knowledge of UAE nationals. It is a true testament and reflection of the vision of the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the directives of His Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. EDA's mission is to build the capabilities that support the objectives of the UAE's foreign policy by delivering high impact training, disseminating research and thought leadership that furthers the understanding of diplomacy and international relations and sends across the message of peace and cooperation through the UAE's distinguished relations with the rest of the world. EDA's unique academic and research platform ensures that its course offerings and research themes meet the needs of the UAE, and contributes to fostering a new generation of diplomatic and foreign relations professionals in line with the highest world-class academic standards and criteria. EDA provides the opportunity for future diplomats to gain and share first-hand insights and experience in the field of diplomacy by interacting, networking and collaborating with a broad range of local partners and organisations, from the private and public sectors. Founded in 2014 by the UAE Cabinet, EDA empowers and prepares Emiratis to serve their nation as part of a highly capable UAE diplomatic corps. It offers fundamental leadership skills and provides students with the necessary skills to serve the interests of the UAE, both at home and abroad. EDA also provides specialised consultation and analysis to the UAE's Government entities, in addition to establishing partnerships and identifying areas of cooperation with relevant educational bodies and institutions. EDA's various operations and plans are overseen by a Board of Trustees, comprising distinguished leaders from government, academia and industry. They provide the Academy with a breadth of expertise and strategic direction. - Emirates News Agency, WAM –http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395280016286.html