From left: Billionaire Bill Gates and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. ARCHIVE

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received a phone call from tech billionaire Bill Gates on Eid Al Adha, according to state news agency WAM. In the phone call on Thursday (June 29), Bill Gates congratulated Sheikh Mohamed on the Muslim holiday and wished the UAE and its residents “continued well-being and prosperity”. Sheikh Mohamed and Gates also discussed potential to enhance collaboration and initiatives to combat global epidemic diseases such as polio. They acknowledged the significant advances made in this field in recent times, as well as the need to address "neglected tropical diseases". Thy also reviewed the role of “Reaching the Last Mile” Forum in mobilising and accelerating global efforts to support underdeveloped societies in eradicating life-threatening diseases. The call also covered the significance of COP28, which will be hosted by the UAE by the end of this year. The event will mark the first comprehensive global evaluation of progress made in implementing the goals of the Historic Paris Agreement for climate and in advancing coordinated climate action and accelerating global efforts to address the consequences of climate change. The two discussed ways that COP28 and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation may work together to address the impact of climate change on human health. Sheikh Mohamed and Gates discussed the value of modern technology and innovation in advancing efforts to find effective and long-lasting solutions to environmental issues, noting that innovation is a key component in addressing such challenges, protecting the environment and its natural resources, and achieving sustainable development. Sheikh Mohammed thanked Gates for his Eid greetings, emphasising the UAE's determination to contribute to advancing international cooperation in combating diseases, as well as the country's support for various initiatives and global efforts in this regard. During the call, Gates praised the UAE's essential humanitarian role in delivering relief to numerous societies throughout the world. He also hailed the UAE's charitable initiatives tackling global diseases and epidemics around the world. ICA/Expat Media
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