ABU DHABI: M.A. Yusuffali has secured his place as a director in the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry after a resounding election victory. The Indian secured a massive 2,256 votes out of 2,599 cast by foreign voters. The elections were held for 15 chamber seats. Thirteen are for local candidates, while two are for expatriates. Dr. Kassim secured the other foreign seat with 1,715 votes.
This is the second time elections were held for the Board of Directors and Yusuffali has been elected both times. Both expatriate candidates were part of the “Abu Dhabi First” panel, which consisted of 15 candidates.
After the results were announced, Yusuffali thanked fellow business community members who voted for him irrespective of his nationality and vowed to work for their welfare and boost Abu Dhabi’s economy.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces congratulated Yusuffali and urged him to work with renewed focus for the overall development of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Vayalar Ravi, Indian Minister for Overseas Indians extended his best wishes to Yusuffali and described the landslide victory as a proud moment for India and Indians. He hoped that Yusuffali’s close relationship with the rulers and royal family would benefit the large Indian community in the Gulf.
Indian Ambassador to the UAE Talmiz Ahmed said his victory would further strengthen Indo-UAE relations and boost trade between the two countries.