WAM ABU DHABI: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the Red Crescent Authority (RCA) stressed that the UAE has always been a major international humanitarian player in a world which sees an increasing need for security and peace for nations.

"The world is seeing social and economic unrest and tragedies that hit underprivileged and marginalized communities in many parts of the world and this makes it necessary for all nations seeking peace, justice and fraternity to rush to the help of people hit by conflicts, wars, natural disasters and economic crises which emerge now and then," Sheikh Hamdan said in a message on the occasion of the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day which is celebrated on the 8th of May.

"Since establishment by the late founding father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE has always aimed to lay the foundations of peace and love, coexistence and cooperation among nations as well as to mobilize capabilities of the good to help underprivileged people around the world, children and women in particular as they bear the brunt of disasters," he added.

Sheikh Hamdan hailed the wise leadership of the UAE, namely President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Gen. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces for following the steps of the late founding father and for sparing no effort to held the underprivileged around the world based on the tolerance of Islam and without any discrimination among people.

He also praised RCA for always rushing to help all people who are in need even before any call is made by the international humanitarian agencies.

Sheikh Hamdan urged the national youth to engage in humanitarian work. He also urged international organizations to give humanitarian issues special attention.

WAM/MMYS