Page 340 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025 Part 1

3/3/25, 11:53 AM India’s Tribute to UAE’s Year of Community: UAE Economy Minister H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri Runs at Community Run in Kerala
Managing Director of UAE-based VPS Healthcare, and hundreds of participants, reinforcing the importance of
inclusivity and community engagement. A. N. Shamseer, Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, flagged
off the run, kicking off an event that saw enthusiastic participation from various segments of society.

“In the UAE, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced 2025 as the Year of
Community. We started a community engagement initiative here in Kannur, with by my brother Dr. Shamsheer. I
am so happy to be here today and take part in it. Next year, we should ensure another run here with the people of
Kerala,” H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri told the media after completing the run.

The UAE and India share deep-rooted economic, cultural, and community-driven ties. With nearly one million
Keralites calling the UAE their second home, the ‘Year of Community Run’ also served as a platform to raise
awareness about community service initiatives among expatriates, reinforcing the spirit of unity and shared
responsibility.

The Kannur Beach Run 2025, organized by the North Malabar Chamber of Commerce, lived up to its reputation
as one of Kerala’s premier running events, drawing over 1,000 participants across multiple race categories. This
year’s edition also featured Kerala’s highest prize money for a half-marathon, further elevating its competitive
status.

“We are honored to have H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member and UAE Minister of Economy, join
us for this special event. His presence has elevated the theme and spirit of the ‘Year of Community Run.’ We
hope such initiatives will continue to strengthen community-driven efforts between both countries and inspire
greater awareness around sports, wellness, and social engagement,” said the organizers.

The event also saw the participation of six elite Ethiopian runners, invited by Dr. Shamsheer to elevate the
event’s stature as a premier race in the region. His inspiration for this initiative comes from the Zayed Charity
Run, a globally recognized humanitarian running event that honors the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed
bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Established over two decades ago, the Zayed Charity Run has played a pivotal role in
promoting fitness and philanthropy, a vision that continues to inspire community-driven sporting events
worldwide.

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