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In a statement issued in 1990 — Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan said, "My father is my teacher. I learn something from him every day, follow his path and absorb from him his values, and the need for patience and prudence in all things."
Foresight is one of the qualities that made the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan one of the region's most prolific and charismatic leaders. His vision has been ably carried out by his eldest son, President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
In 2007, Shaikh Khalifa gave his approval to the ambitious Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. The plan reflects the Ruler's vision and his determination to position Abu Dhabi as one of the leading cities in the world.
This, however, is one among the many initiatives launched by Shaikh Khalifa. He set up the Khalifa Housing Fund in 1979, allocated $9 million (Dh33 million) to United Nations humanitarian organisations as urgent aid for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and set up the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company.
In addition to these efforts, Shaikh Khalifa played an active role in strengthening the UAE's external relations. He has also launched a number of awards to support development programmes in the emirate, including the Khalifa Education Award, Khalifa Excellence Award and the Khalifa Fund to support small and medium enterprises.
Born in 1948 in Al Ain, Shaikh Khalifa has been influenced by his late father in his ideas, behaviour and role as Abu Dhabi's Ruler.
In 1969, he was named Crown Prince. In 1973, Shaikh Khalifa assumed the post of deputy prime minister in the second UAE Federal Cabinet. He assumed the title of Ruler of Abu Dhabi when Shaikh Zayed passed away in 2004, and was also elected as the UAE's new president by the Supreme Council.
Shaikh Khalifa has served as the Chairman of the Supreme Petroleum Council since the late 80s. As chairman, he has tried to ensure that the country diversifies its economy away from reliance on oil and gas production.
With numerous achievements under his belt, Shaikh Khalifa's commitment to Abu Dhabi and the UAE is noteworthy. In fact, an important step taken by Shaikh Khalifa was the setting up of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC). The council will play an important role in ensuring that Shaikh Khalifa's vision for Abu Dhabi comes to fruition.
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