The National Library and Archives (NLA), in collaboration with the embassy of Singapore in the UAE, has hosted a Book Handover Ceremony and Photograph Exhibition at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy to commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Singapore.

The event brought together distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, and academics from both nations to celebrate four decades of enduring friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations. The embassy of Singapore presented a collection of books to the NLA, highlighting the exchange of knowledge and the importance of cultural diplomacy. The accompanying photograph exhibition showcased archival images that traced the journey of bilateral relations, highlighting milestones in political, economic, and cultural cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1985.

His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director-General of the NLA, said: "This ceremony is a testament to the deep-rooted ties between our nations, bound by shared values and a commitment to progress. The book handover and exhibition not only preserve history but also inspire future generations to build upon the legacy of cooperation."

His Excellency Kamal R Vaswani, Ambassador of Singapore to the UAE, said: "The UAE and Singapore have enjoyed 40 years of strong and dynamic relations. Today’s commemoration reflects our shared journey and reaffirms our commitment to strengthening our partnership in education, innovation, and cultural exchange."

The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy provided a symbolic venue for commemoration, underscoring the role of diplomacy, dialogue, and knowledge sharing in building bridges between nations. The celebration honoured the achievements of the past four decades and set the foundation for future collaboration in areas of mutual interest, ensuring that the partnership between the UAE and Singapore continues to thrive.