H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has praised the directives made by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to set 2018 as the 'Year of Zayed', reflecting the UAE's determination to continue the approach laid by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the nation, in charitable and humanitarian work in all fields.

His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, said that the name of the late Sheikh Zayed is associated with noble deeds. He never failed to extend a helping hand to countries in need, and established the values of goodness and humanitarian action, placing them on the UAE's list of priorities. The late ruler was proactive in helping people in the areas of humanitarian response, making the UAE as a global leader in this field.

H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed explained that the people of the nation have followed the approach of the late Sheikh Zayed, where today we see the results of the planting of Zayed in his sons the most beautiful images of generous philanthropy and to make sacrifices for charity and serving countries in need.

His Highness added that the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan emphasised the importance of the UAE's approach to human service, marking the country as an oasis of security and tolerance enjoyed by citizens and residents alike.

The 2018 declaration as the Year of Zayed is an opportunity to express our pride in the significant achievements founded by Sheikh Zayed, and to ensure the continued progress and development of the nation, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan concluded.