ABU DHABI — Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan said that the UAE will continue to carry out distinguished diplomatic work and maintain its prestigious position at the regional and international levels.

The UAE top diplomat’s statement came as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, prime minister and ruler of Dubai — in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan — on Wednesday announced a Cabinet reshuffle affecting ministerial positions at the foreign ministry, where Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar and Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan have been appointed ministers of state, and Dr. Anwar Gargash and Zaki Nusseibeh have been appointed as advisers to President of the UAE Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also awarded the Order of the Union to Dr. Anwar Gargash for his dedicated work to support the country's foreign policies and strengthen the UAE’s diplomatic relations at the regional and international levels. Zaki Nusseibeh was also honored with the Order of the Union for his long cultural and diplomatic career serving the country.

Sheikh Abdullah affirmed that both Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar and Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan have been chosen as ministers of state due to their experience and outstanding achievements at the foreign ministry.

"Al Marar has worked in the diplomatic service since 1978. Sheikh Shakhbout, who is part of the new generation at the foreign ministry, has proven his ability by consolidating relations with Saudi Arabia, to which he served as ambassador, and for which he was the subject of much praise."

Sheikh Abdullah added: "Their excellencies will join the other ministers of state in managing the foreign policies of the UAE, in support of the political positions of the UAE and its relationships with international partners. Together they will work to strengthen the UAE’s position and build diplomatic capacity to uphold the interests of the State and its citizens abroad."

The minister extended his appreciation and gratitude to both Dr. Anwar Gargash and Zaki Nusseibeh for their outstanding service to "our beloved country", noting that they will now serve the nation through new and important roles and that the UAE will remain appreciative of their valuable efforts. — WAM