Our flag will continue to fly high as a symbol of pride and national unity: Mohammed bin Rashid

DUBAI, 4th November, 2015 (WAM) – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, yesterday hoisted the UAE National Flag at noon in the Dubai Creek Park, with the participation of 5,000 students from Dubai schools, representing more than 100 nationalities, in celebration of the UAE Flag Day. Flag Day, which is celebrated on 3rd November, also coincides with the anniversary of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s accession to the Presidency of the country. Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of the event in symbolising national values and fuelling the spirit of loyalty for the country. "It reminds us of our duty towards our country and our commitment to the flag, to do what we can to keep it flying in pride and dignity, motivate us to further our work and diligence in the glory of our country, and always maintain its position among the ranks of the greatest countries," he said Sheikh Mohammed said, "I gave directions for our national flag to be raised today at the same time, and in doing so I wanted to emphasise the important fact that we are all one in the UAE, we confirm our belonging to one nation, work to achieve the one goal which is glory, and consolidate our loyalty to the leader of the march of development, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, promising Allah Almighty to forever keep our flag always flown high in pride of our country and the unity of its people." He added, "We know that our union is a symbol of strength and unity, and it is our duty to keep it a towering beacon of our dignity among nations." Addressing the children participating in the event, the Ruler of Dubai said, "You are the future and who will shape the future. Celebrating Flag Day is not only by using your hands but by using your mind's ideas and creativity." The celebrations at the creek park also featured the playing of the unified national anthem which was recently approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed with the aim to strengthen government identification at all federal and local authorities in line with the state identity in various activities and official events. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, and a number of other senior officials attended the event. – Emirates News Agency, WAM - http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395287501650.html