The passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, on the 13th of May 2022 marks a sad day for the people of the UAE and the wider Arabian Gulf region. As an heir to his late father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, His Highness was the second President of the Emirates, who lived and ruled at a time of unparalleled development for the country.
Under Sheikh Khalifa’s astute leadership, the UAE ascended to prominence in the world stage for industrial, economic, and political affairs. If his father envisioned a great, progressive nation built on respect, tolerance, education, and innovation, he led the way and fulfilled this vision, transforming the country into a powerhouse of global and regional significance.
The instant outpouring of messages of condolences and support from leaders across the world – from East to West, from his allies, neighbours and long-standing partners – speak volumes about the strong relationships he formed over the years marked by friendship, cooperation and a vision for a better world.
As the second largest producer of chemicals and petrochemicals in the region, and a key supplier of energy to the world, the UAE plays a vital part in ensuring energy security and powering industrial development not just on its own territory, but in other countries across the globe. His Highness’ strategic energy reforms, investment in developing the country’s rich natural resources and then converting them into high value-added products drove tremendous socio-economic development and created hundreds of thousands of jobs for the local workforce. He drove policies for a more sustainable UAE, committed to and actively participated in the world leading powers’ pledge towards addressing climate change and minimizing our impact on the planet.
His Highness was a beacon of cross regional cooperation with the remaining GCC states – Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. His legacy resonates with our vision and aspirations at GPCA for partnership, cooperation, prosperity and success.
Today His Highness Sheikh Khalifa leaves behind a country that enjoys a firm standing on the world stage. A union that’s stronger than ever.
To the leadership of the UAE, its people, and his family, we express our heartfelt condolences. May his soul rest in eternal piece.
On behalf of the GPCA Board of Directors