A day to remember

Sunday, 22 February, 2009

IDEX 2009 opened yesterday in a spectacular ceremony in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and several hundred VIP guests.

The opening display highlighted the traditions and heritage of the United Arab Emirates, as well as showcasing some of the military technology on show.

His Highness was greeted by dancers and sash-waving Abu Dhabi schoolchildren. Following their performance, the backdrop to their display was rolled back to reveal the visiting naval vessels, with their complements manning the decks, and the mobility demonstration area in the foreground.

Military vehicles from the UAE forces showed off their ability to negotiate the obstacles in the demonstration area. Troops fast-roped from Panther helicopters onto the quayside in front of the naval vessels. The mobility demonstration was topped by a stunning display of motorcycle stunts, followed by parachutists landing in the confines of the parade area.

Soldiers, dancers and schoolchildren combined in a colourful performance, culminating in the unfurling of a giant UAE flag as F-16s and Mirage 2000s flew past in salute.

On either side, the flags of the participating nations were held aloft, emphasising the international flavour of IDEX, and the importance placed by the UAE on international relations and co-operative security.

In the words of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan: “The UAE will always remain at the forefront with other states, building bridges of love, harmony and co-operation amongst the world’s different nations.”