His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Chairman of the Education and Human Resources Council, has attended a graduation ceremony for Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy’s Future Forerunners cohort of 2022-23, held for 66 graduates of programmes that include Diplomacy and International Relations, Global Affairs and Diplomatic Leadership, and Humanitarian Action and Development.
His Highness praised the role of diplomatic negotiation and cross-cultural communication in supporting global development and innovation, and commended graduates on their impressive academic achievements, praising their diligence and dedication during their academic journey.
His Highness said: "Today marks the beginning of a journey full of opportunities and challenges where you take part in reflecting your country's image across the global landscape, imprinting the name of the UAE into the hearts of millions by entrenching the principles of respect, tolerance, peace and inclusivity. This is a well-deserved moment for you to cherish all your achievements. You have worked consistently and diligently throughout your studies in this prominent diplomatic academy, and this reflects on the dedication and excellence you have demonstrated during your academic journey.
"The exponentially growing role of the UAE and its increasing influence on various international issues position us at the forefront of political and diplomatic action. This compels us to harness true knowledge and all our analytical tools to contribute to the formulation of significant decisions that are impactful on present and future generations."
His Highness also said: "Always remember that learning does not end with an academic certificate. The world of diplomacy and international affairs is constantly changing, requiring a continuous learning process to cope with new challenges and opportunities. Continue to build your knowledge and develop your skills, and always be ready to contribute to shaping a better world. I assure you that the doors are open for you, and the development process will continue with your contributions and talents.
"The skills you have gained here from the art of diplomatic negotiation, understanding global concepts, to communicating with different cultures, are tools that open up enormous and unexpected opportunities to galvanize the UAE's position as a beacon of development, innovation and solidarity. It is a gateway through which you can be part of in our diplomatic system, and to work as part of a team that continues its successes and achievements for the development of the country and realize its vision to emphasise the nation as a land of aspirations, inclusivity and safety."
Nikolay Mladenov, Director-General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, said: "Your years of education in the academy have been an antecedent for excellence, creativity and the continuation of the path to knowledge, one which enables nations to advance, civilizations to flourish, and communities to thrive. You have been and continue to be an embodiment of positive change we need in our world. Today, we are witnessing your graduation as you now have become armed with the knowledge, skills and capabilities necessary to enable you to reach your full potential in diplomacy."
His Excellency Dr Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, announced the establishment of the Anwar Gargash Academy Alumni Diplomatic Association, which aims to facilitate communication and establish connections between alumni after graduation for the academy to stay in touch with its students during their academic journey and after graduation.
