Condolences to the people of UAE at the passing of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahyan

It is with great sadness and sorrow to hear of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. I extend to the people and leadership of the United Arab Emirates my most heartfelt condolences.

His Highness, the President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was an inspiring leader who made the United Arab Emirates a beacon of progress and prosperity and an oasis of coexistence, prosperity and civil peace. He was an active member in the Gulf, Arab, Islamic and international environments and a loyal partner to ICARDA and CGIAR, supporting our work across the Arabian Peninsula. His passing constitutes a great loss for all.

ICARDA remains fully committed to the continuation of the partnership with the Ministery of Climate Change and Environment, under HE Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, helping to contribute to the realization of the country's strategic visions in food systems research-for-development in dry areas at the national, regional and international levels.

I offer the utmost respect and appreciation,

Mr. Aly Abousabaa, Director General - International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) Regional Director - Central and West Asia and North Africa, One CGIA, One CGIAR