Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of State for Tolerance, has congratulated H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF) and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, on receiving the first ‘Jawaher Medal of Honour’ from Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs.

Sheikha Lubna said the prestigious accolade recognises Sheikha Fatima's exceptional achievements which benefited society in the UAE, the region and beyond.

She added that Sheikha Fatima's humanitarian initiatives to help people affected by crises and disasters received praise from all.

Sheikha Lubna also noted that Sheikha Fatima, in 2005, was named "Mother of the Nation" and "Mother of Arabs."

"Sheikha Fatima is an epitome and a source of inspiration for generations, seeking to make positive contributions," Sheikha Lubna said.

Among the many generous initiatives of Sheikha Fatima, she cited her donation of AED10 million in May last year to a campaign to provide treatment for one million poor children in the UAE and abroad, AED10 million to help Syrian refugees, AED7 million to support the Emirates Red Crescent in helping Iraqis in 2003 and US$2 million to the Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt (CCHE 57357).

She also noted that Sheikha Fatima established the General Women's Union in 1975, launched the Emirati Women Day in August last year as an annual occasion and, a few days ago, announced that 2016 will be the year of women's innovation.

Sheikha Fatima was awarded the Medal of Honour today in recognition of her tremendous efforts and contributions to social and humanitarian issues, including her commitment to women’s empowerment, childhood care and family welfare, both in the UAE and across the globe.

The honouring ceremony took place at Al Badea Palace in Sharjah in the presence of a number of female ministers, women leaders, members of the Federal National Council, prominent figures and heads of social and humanitarian organisations dedicated to women and children in the UAE.

Source:WAM