Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, said that Abu Dhabi has become an international hub for all forms of artworks, thanks to the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
Sheikh Nahyan made the exclusive remark to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, while unveiling the 40 metre-long mural in Abu Dhabi, painted by a renowned British street artist, Ben Eine, on the facade of the British Embassy.
He added that the interest of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in the international artworks reflects the UAE and Abu Dhabi's prestigious artistic stature seen through the organisation of various arts festivals, among others, the Abu Dhabi Arts Festival, Dubai Arts Festival and others.
Sheikh Nahyan also said that openness to different cultures, civilisations and religions goes in parallel with adherence to the teachings of Islam and authentic traditions and customs outlined by the UAE founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
He added that Sheikh Zayed had underlined the importance of communication and extending bridges among the past, the present and the future, as well as sticking to the national identity, noting that President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, follows up the legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
Sheikh Nahyan also reiterated that the UAE has become a role model for any community which seeks success, adding that it receives students and workers from various world countries as well as Arab employees to work in the country.
Sheikh Nahyan praised the strong historic relations between the UAE and the UK, indicating that the British Embassy building was the second building constructed near Qasr Al Hosn "Palace." Philip Parham, the UK Ambassador to the UAE and Marc Jessel, Director, British Council UAE attended the event.