The UAE has been named the world’s largest donor of development assistance in proportion to its gross national income for the fifth year running.
According to the Development Assistance Committee of the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development, the UAE donated AED19.32 billion ($5.25 billion) last year, a growth of 18.1 percent over 2016, representing 1.31 percent of its GNI.
Up to 54 percent of the value of the aid was non refundable grants to 147 countries, 40 of which are among the least developed in the world, state news agency WAM reported.
Asia got AED8.28 billion, or 43 percent of the development aid, followed by Africa which got AED5.44 billion. Yemen got the lion’s share of aid in Asia, receiving AED2.97 billion, which accounts for around one third of the aid channeled to the Asian nations.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, credited the country’s leadership for its generous contributions to all international development arenas.
He added that the UAE support secured the lives of millions of people around the world, establishing international peace and security, creating better opportunities and a brighter future for people in developing countries.
Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, added: “This accomplishment confirms that the UAE is increasing its humanitarian support and response and is playing an effective role in achieving the sustainable development goals of its partner countries, as well as improving the lives of people.”
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