TRIVANDRUM: The UAE consulate in the capital of Kerala here celebrated this week the 46th National Day reaffirming the long-standing friendship and the strong economic and cultural ties between the Gulf nation and the southern Indian state.

UAE Consul General HE Jamal Husein Alzaabi hosted a colourfull reception Friday evening attended by dignitaries from the state government including Minister for Tourism Kadakampally Surendran who wished the Emirati people on behalf of citizens of Kerala and the significant Malayali diaspora in the emirates.

The Consul General, in his speech, outlined the significant achievements of his country since the formation of the union in 1971, and the strong bilateral ties it has established with India.

“These relations found their roots in the principles of cooperation and mutual respect, and evolved into a strategic partnership between the two countries and peoples over recent years,” he said.

“The mutual visits of the leaders of the two countries and the ever-growing volume of commercial, economic and cultural exchanges bear witness to the strong bilateral ties our countries share in various fields.”

He hailed the vision of UAE leaders including President H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as well as their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of Emirates, in transforming the country into a model nation in the region and establishing strong international ties.