UAE Ambassador to Israel Mohamed Al Khaja at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy. — Supplied photo

UAE challenges limits to achieve peace: Ambassador to Israel

Abu Dhabi - Envoy speaks about his passion for diplomacy at a recent event in Abu Dhabi.

Ashwani Kumar

Published: Sat 27 Mar 2021, 2:01 PM

Last updated: Sat 27 Mar 2021, 2:08 PM

Driven by the UAE’s determination to achieve sustainable peace, the country’s first ambassador to Israel expressed optimism for his new role.

“I recognise that it is a great honour to be chosen by our wise leadership for this historic position, one that enables me to carry the UAE’s values peace, coexistence, and tolerance into a new era of cooperation in the region,” said Mohamed Al Khaja, the first Emirati ambassador to head a diplomatic mission in Israel — a position created following the signing of the Abraham Accords. Earlier this month, he officially took up his post and presented his credentials to Israeli President Reuven Rivlin.

Advertising

During a recent discussion hosted by the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (Agda), Al Khaja spoke about his passion for diplomacy and the UAE’s mission to build lasting peace.

“The UAE is not limited by challenges but challenges the limits of what is possible to achieve sustainable peace. Diplomacy is one of most important instruments in our modern society to promote the UAE’s values. I am sure that Agda’s trainee diplomats joining us today understand how diplomacy can bring about meaningful social, economic, and security advances for the benefit of humanity. And I wish them success in serving our country,” Al Khaja told aspiring diplomats currently enrolled in the academy.

While acknowledging the importance of his posting, the ambassador also shared his enthusiasm for what he sees as an opportunity to develop cooperation between the UAE and Israel.

The session was the first in-person event that Agda has hosted since March 2020. It was held with Covid-19 precautionary measures in place.

Bernardino Leon, director-general of Agda, who moderated the session, acknowledged the enormity of the diplomatic task in front of Al Khaja. “I speak on behalf of everyone at Agda when I say we wish him every success in this monumental task, and we are confident that he will do an excellent job.”

Leon highlighted the academy’s commitment to keeping students engaged with top diplomats.

“Hosting respected diplomats at the academy is one of our main priorities. Their insights provide a window into the day-to-day functions of the job of a diplomat. This gives students an idea of what to expect when they enter the field,” he added.

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com