In pics: Sheikh Mohammed meets Emirati astronauts

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has met the two Emirati astronauts training to embark on UAE's historic space mission.

On Twitter, he wrote: "With Hazza Al Mansoori and Sultan Al Neyadi, the Arab world's first astronauts to the International Space Station. They carry the dreams of our founding fathers, the ambitions of our people, and inspire our youth to raise their aspirations to the sky."

During the meeting at Za’abeel Palace, Sheikh Mohammed also wished the astronauts success in their journey.

With Hazza Al Mansoori and Sultan Al Neyadi, the Arab world’s first astronauts to the International Space Station. They carry the dreams of our founding fathers, the ambitions of our people, and inspire our youth to raise their aspirations to the sky. pic.twitter.com/OlgefNj0Mr

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) March 5, 2019

The duo, selected from among 4,022 applicants, have undergone a rigorous training programme in Russia to prepare for the mission on September 25. 

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