India is a special friend, trusted partner: UAE Minister of Tolerance

India is a special friend and trusted partner of the UAE, said Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance, at an event in Abu Dhabi.

"The level of friendship and cooperation is demonstrated very well with the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will receive the Zayed medal, the highest civilian award of the UAE," he said during the celebrations for the 550th birth anniversary of Sikh religion founder Guru Nanak Dev, held at the India Social and Cultural Centre (ISC).

Sheikh Nahyan underlined that the bilateral relations are deepl rooted and based on mutual trust and confidence.

"We think of India as a special friend and a respected, trusted partner. As friends and partners who value tolerance, peace and prosperity, our two countries have cooperated in many areas. Our cooperation is based on the principles and values we share. We have deep respect and appreciation of other cultures, languages and religions. We have shared desire for global peace, safety, prosperity and well-being of our communities."

Promoting tolerance, peace

Sheikh Nahyan inaugurated a seminar and painting exhibition on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak. He said such events presented an 'opportunity' to recognise and consider the teachings of Guru Nanak that emphasise on living by values of peace, harmony and tolerance. "Guru Nanak spoke about the supreme value of harmony. And the Sikh community in the UAE promotes these values."