In a significant diplomatic gesture, the United Arab Emirates has conferred its highest civilian honor, the Mother of the Nation Order, on Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. The award recognizes her leadership in promoting sustainable development and social unity in Tanzania.
The decoration was formally presented by UAE Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during his official visit to Tanzania on Monday. The ceremony was held in the presence of Tanzanian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo and other senior officials from both nations.
The meeting between President Hassan and Sheikh Abdullah marked the beginning of a high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The leaders discussed ways to deepen partnerships in economic development, trade, investment, and infrastructure.
President Hassan extended her appreciation for the recognition and emphasized Tanzania’s commitment to fostering mutual cooperation with the UAE. She conveyed her greetings to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with wishes for continued prosperity for the Emirati people.
Sheikh Abdullah, in return, highlighted the UAE’s desire to expand cooperation with Tanzania, especially in key sectors that drive sustainable growth. He praised Tanzania’s leadership and expressed interest in building long-term partnerships that benefit both countries.
The two sides witnessed the signing of several bilateral agreements:
- A mutual administrative cooperation agreement on customs matters, aiming to facilitate smoother trade operations;
- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on investment in the mining sector, opening avenues for UAE investment in Tanzania’s rich natural resources;
- An MoU to establish a Tanzania-UAE Business Council, signed between the chambers of commerce of both nations to boost private sector collaboration.
Also present during the visit were UAE Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State Noura Al Kaabi, and UAE Ambassador Khalifa Abdulrahman Al Marzouqi.
The visit underscores Tanzania’s growing regional and international profile under President Hassan’s leadership, particularly in attracting foreign investment and advancing economic diplomacy.