Mohammed bin Rashid, Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Princes attend inauguration of IDEX 2013

Abu Dhabi, Feb 18, 2013 (WAM) - The Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with His Highness Gen. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, attended the official inauguration of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference, IDEX and the naval show, NAVDEX, yesterday. The ceremony started with the playing of the UAE National Anthem. This was followed by a performance from the Fijian military veterans troupe, entitled " War Spears Dance" and "Fan Dance", proceeded by a performance by a Japanese group, entitled ''Strike terror into the hearts of enemies". The main feature of the opening ceremony was a spectacular show of power in which the land, air and naval forces of the UAE demonstrated their professional skills in front a large number of guests from Arab and friendly countries. The UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum toured various IDEX pavilions, which are, featuring the latest military equipment and various kinds of land, air and sea defence systems. The Vice President along with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed launched at 'Tawazun pavilion three Nimr armoured vehicles which includes Armoured Personnel Carriers, counter-terrorism Vehicle and combat vehicles manufactured locally by Nimr Automotive, a Tawazun Group company. Sheikh Mohammed visited Telecommunication Regulatory Authority's pavilion, where he was briefed on the Computer Emergency Response Team. He also visited the Italian Pavilion, which showcases the latest naval military defence technology. The UAE Vice President visited the Italian pavilion, which features the latest naval military defence technology. Then he toured the French pavilion, which showcases the French ships and missile industries. He exchanged greetings with members of the French Fleet who are participating at the Exhibition. At the Australian pavilion, he was briefed on the latest warplanes, helicopters and technology systems in this field. His tour also covered the Russian and Chinese pavilions, Emirates Advanced Research and Technology Holding (EARTH). Sheikh Mohammed's tour took him to the German, Turkish, Chinese and Brazilian stands and others, where the latest defence technology equipment were being shown. The Vice President hailed the huge participation of the companies, corporations, and local companies at the event. He also lauded Emirati youth who exhibit their efficiency in all national occasions and sessions. "They always prove beyond doubt that they are able to shoulder the responsibilities with confidence and efficiency," he said. - Emirates News Agency, WAM