His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has affirmed that meeting and knowing other people is a divine directive of our religion.

"Our presence here in Spain is aimed at forging a common future based on love and affection, and meeting new people without any hidden agenda", His Highness noted.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah made these remarks in the presence of high-level guests and attendees at the launch ceremony of Spanish language editions of a collection of his historical and literary works at the Teatro Real Opera House in Madrid.

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi said: "It is no longer hard to meet others, or introduce ourselves to them like before. I used to think that my quest of discovery was like running after a mirage, but soon I found that others are looking for us too, and want to meet us. In the beginning, it was with the UK through cultural exchange; then came Germany and France, followed by Italy, and now, Spain".

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah continued: "We share a special relationship with Spain; the country is truly close to us. We left our names in your valleys and on your walls. We decorated your nation with our monuments, our culture. We have come to you again today, seeking your love and friendship, recalling a fond past that has connected our cultures forever. To this day, that we are proud of Spain, and hope you are proud of us as well."

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah concluded his speech by calling on the Spanish community to work towards creating a new history of relationships with the Arab and larger Muslim world, join hands and chart a common future with the advancement of individuals and communities at its heart.