(CNN)– In an evening filled with heartfelt performances, renowned Syrian singer Assala Nasri broke from her usual conduct during the “Emirates Love Syria” event held on Saturday at Zabeel Park in Dubai. She paid a special tribute to the esteemed Syrian artist Mona Wasef, who was among those honoured at the gathering.
A Tribute to Mona Wasef
Assala expressed her admiration with touching words: “I usually don’t do this, as everyone present is a star, and all attendees are dear and important to me. But please allow me to make an exception… Today, we have a lady from my homeland whom I respect, appreciate, love, and take pride in immensely… Please allow me to welcome Mrs. Mona Wasef… It is a tremendous honour to have you here.”
Musical Performances and Highlights
The event showcased a selection of Assala’s most popular songs, alongside tracks from her latest album, “The Syrian Album.” This performance represented the pinnacle of the “Emirates Love Syria” event, organised by the Syrian community in the UAE.
The gathering also honored fellow Syrian artist Jamal Suleiman and several notable figures from the Syrian community in the Emirates.
Messages of Unity and Support
A notable highlight was a recorded video message from Ahmad al-Shara, the transitional Syrian president, who addressed attendees saying, “Sincere feelings are what we need most as peoples and nations, especially when the region undergoes crises and challenges, revealing how interconnected our destinies are.” He continued, emphasizing that the ailments affecting the UAE also impact Syria and vice versa.
Al-Shara added, “This is a mutual feeling between myself and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed. It’s beautiful to renew this sentiment annually at this remarkable gathering, reminding us of the importance of the bond of love, nurtured by my brother Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, for which I am grateful.”
He concluded by affirming, “Just as the Emirates loves Syria, so too does Syria love the Emirates in both word and deed. You, dear Syrians, are ambassadors of your beautiful country, and it is each of your responsibilities to represent our values, ethics, and love. Syria has returned to you, is being rebuilt, and awaits your participation in its revival.”
Words from UAE Officials
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, commenced his speech by thanking President al-Shara, stating, “It delighted me to be with you at the second edition of the Syrian community’s celebration of the deep fraternal relations between Syria and the UAE, showcased through your activities and events that highlight the love of the Emirates for Syria and vice versa.”
He elaborated, “We support every initiative aimed at the advancement of our sister Syria and the achievement of security, peace, and stability throughout its regions. Let us together resolutely declare that the strong fraternal ties between Syria and the UAE will persist and grow… May God protect Syria, and may God protect the Emirates, and may we perpetuate the blessings of brotherhood, love, and peace.”