Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of International Cooperation and Development (MICAD) has emphasised that the UAE leadership is instrumental in promoting women's empowerment as they walk in the steps of the nation's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who laid the firm foundations, and show the world the UAE's outstanding experience, now a source of national pride.
In a statement on the occasion of the International Women's Day, Sheikha Lubna said the UAE has been able to make achievements for women thanks to the efforts and support of 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 H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, GWU, Supreme President of the Family Development Foundation, FDF, and Head of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.
This year, the International Women's Day is devoted to the theme, "Empower Women, Empower Humanity - Picture It!".
Sheikha Lubna highlighted the UAE's active role in protecting women's rights and fighting social injustice in several poor and developing countries through its stances in international circles and material support.
"No doubt, as the international community, on this day, continues to mobilise efforts and review past achievements, we in the UAE look forward to more achievements. What our country has achieved in the UAE for women's empowerment, thanks to Allah, the directives of our wise leadership and our support for the international community's relevant efforts, makes us more willing to make further efforts to attain the top places in all areas of development," said Minister Al Qasimi.
The second half of the past century witnessed fast-paced developments in gender equality and women's participation in social and economic development, she noted.
All around the world, International Women's Day represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality.
The UN theme for International Women's Day 2015 is "Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Picture it!". Governments and activists around the world will commemorate the 20th anniversary year of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, an historic roadmap that sets the agenda for realising women's rights.
Each year International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on 8 March. The first International Women's Day was observed in 1911. Thousands of events are organised to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organisations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women's groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day.
Source: WAM