Statement by H.E. Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation On Union Pledge Day
On Union Pledge Day, let us recall the legacy of the founders and the spirit of sacrifice.
H.E. Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation, highlighted the UAE's pioneering position among developed nations, as a world-class model of excellence across diverse fields. Her Excellency remarked that this exemplary growth is a testament to the wise leadership's forward-looking vision for investing in people, while fostering a culture rooted in innovation and sustainability. It also aligns with the approach of the nation's founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the rulers of the Emirates. Moreover, H.E. Al Rumaithi underscored that the nation has positioned itself as a regional and global hub for impact and decision-making, as well as a key enabler in shaping a more prosperous and advanced world.
In a statement made on the Union Pledge Day, Her Excellency said: 'On this momentous occasion, let us reaffirm our commitment to the noble principles upon which this great was founded, emphasising our loyalty to the wise leadership and this nation which knows no retreat and is hard-wired to lead. Let us also recall the timeless legacy of the founders and the spirit of sacrifice, through which we harness the resilience to strive towards an ambitious future vision. The Union Pledge Day is also a reminder for every Emirati to build upon past achievements and actively contribute towards the nation's ongoing growth journey, inking a brand-new chapter of achievement and progress every day.'
H.E. Mariam continued: 'The Union Pledge Day is a remarkable milestone in the nation's rich legacy, a source of inspiration for generations to come and an important opportunity to reconnect with the nation's founding values and the spirit of determination. It serves as the ideal occasion to renew our commitment to national development, and continue this journey with utmost dedication and sincerity, ushering in a prosperous tomorrow built on the values of charity and hard work, while preserving and enhancing the UAE's leading position on the global stage.'
Her Excellency also remarked that the occasion showcases the UAE's unwavering commitment to upholding humanitarian values, by prioritising the role of family and senior citizens in the sustainable development process. H.E. Mariam noted that this noble vision focuses on enhancing family cohesion, empowering various societal segments, and honouring senior citizens as powerful symbols of wisdom. Her Excellency further stated that through qualitative initiatives and supportive policies, the nation affirms its dedication to building a cohesive society which preserves the dignity of its members and upholds loyalty. This is also vital to ensuring that the spirit of the union remains present in all achievements pertaining to both individual and family development.
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Sumud member Mohamed Abdel Hakam told Mada Masr that the alliance remains united despite internal debates, saying the discussions and the SPLM-RDC's memo — currently under review — includes constructive proposals aimed at improving performance. He dismissed reports that Arman's faction suspended its participation in the alliance, saying the group remains a core member. Sumud was formed after the February dissolution of the Civil Front for Democracy, headed by former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, just days before key members aligned with the RSF and signed the Nairobi declaration — a deal that later evolved into the RSF-led Tasees coalition. Now, Sumud, which continues to be led by Hamdok, includes Arman's SPLM faction, a National Umma Party faction led by Fadlallah Burma Nasir, the Sudanese Congress Party, the Unionist Alliance, civil society organizations, youth groups and resistance committees. 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The SPLM-RDC said it will continue engaging in dialogue within Sumud's leadership to push for necessary reforms, but made clear that it does not intend to take part in the current political process, including the proposed roundtable or Sumud's executive bodies. *** Rejecting UAE role in Sudan peace process, Democratic Bloc convenes for first time in a year Meeting in Port Sudan this week for the first time in over a year, the pro-military Democratic Bloc voiced support for mediation efforts led by the US, Egypt and Saudi Arabia to end Sudan's war, while firmly rejecting any role for the UAE. The meetings on Sunday and Monday coincided with a Saudi diplomatic delegation's visit to Port Sudan to explore the prospects of reviving peace talks, a source in the TSC and Sudan Liberation Movement (Minnawi) spokesperson Al-Sadig Al-Nour told Mada Masr. However, the TSC source downplayed the visit as routine and unlikely to have a significant impact at this stage. At the bloc's meeting, the political committee — headed by Minnawi — discussed the latest military and political developments and welcomed growing US engagement with Sudan. It praised US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's remarks that Sudan will be a diplomatic priority, and his appointment of Senior Advisor for African Affairs Massad Boulos to lead the effort. While also expressing appreciation for Saudi Arabia's and Egypt's roles, the bloc said the UAE cannot be considered a neutral party due to its backing of the RSF, describing the Gulf country as a main actor in the war. Senior US officials had gathered in Washington in June with the ambassadors of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE to discuss the Sudan conflict. Formed in 2021, the Democratic Bloc includes armed movements aligned with the military and political factions opposed to the anti-war Sumud coalition. Though long seen as a key political player, it has not convened formally in over a year. 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