Syrian officials and intellectuals have hailed UAE President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for his support to the Arab nation's struggle against Israel as well as to his efforts to liberate the occupied Golan Heights, according to Gulf News.
Their statements were written in a new publication by the Zayed Center for Coordination and Follow-up, marking the 20th anniversary of the uprising of Golan citizens against Israel's decision to annex the strategic plateau on February 14, 1982.
The publication Occupied Golan ... No Alternative For Its Arab Identity includes some statements made by Sheikh Zayed including his famous words during the 1973 Arab-Israel war, "Arab oil is not dearer than Arab blood."
It also quoted Sheikh Zayed as saying upon his arrival in Syria in December 1973, "I have come to Syria whose fighters have preserved the dignity of the Arab nation through their sacrifices and heroic acts on Golan...I have come to Syria to say that we have always been with you and will always be with you."
In his statement, Yassin Suweid, adviser to Syria's Agriculture Minister, stated the Syrian government and the people would always remember Sheikh Zayed's efforts.
"His Highness' efforts and stands will never be forgotten. He has always backed Syria and we will not forget his decision to cut off oil supplies to countries, which supported Israeli aggression," he added.
Khaled Aboud, a deputy for the Golan constituency, said, "On this occasion, I would like to express gratitude to Arab states, especially the GCC, on top of which is the UAE under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Zayed for its continuous support to the Syrian people in their honorable struggle to liberate their land."
The publication also quoted the famous Syrian poet Abdul Majid Al Faouri as saying, "The support extended by the UAE has effectively contributed to the steadfastness of the Arab people in Syria and enabled them to defend their rights and the identity of the Golan Heights." (Albawaba.com)
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
