The Asian Business Leaders Forum (ABLF) has bestowed its prestigious lifetime achievement award on .H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF) and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood in recognition of the numerous initiatives she launched at the national, regional and international levels to help women to overcome obstacles and to proudly support themselves.
The award was received on Sheikha Fatima's behalf by Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State during a ceremony held this evening at the Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development.
After receiving the award which was presented on Sheikh Nahyan's behalf by Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi said the integration of women into the labour force was considered a priority for the nations of the world as women represent the largest marginalised population group in the world and their integration would help increase productivity and drive economic growth and development.
She said the UAE is one of the leading countries in empowering women and granting them full rights.
"The UAE is at the forefront in Asia in terms of creating opportunities to enable women, as well as initiatives to enhance women's role in leadership and business. Certainly, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima, the Mother of the Nation, is a best example and a role model in the development of Emirati women. She works tirelessly to enlighten women, to empower them through education and training and to provide the opportunity for them to demonstrate their capabilities. She is an exceptional pioneering woman with pioneering initiatives that enabled women in the different fields." Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi underlined Sheikha Fatima's initiatives to help women to stand out and to defend women's rights and their struggle against the forces of ignorance, injustice and inequality. She also referred to her efforts in the fields of education, health and labour.
Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi said she was pleased with the honour bestowed on Sheikha Fatima and the recognition she received for her countless contributions and achievements.
The ABLF is Asia's premier and definitive showcase of excellence, innovation and outstanding achievements in three crucial sectors that are key drivers of the global economy - Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.