A true leader does not derive power from his position, but from his ethics, from people’s love for him, and from his knowledge, education and excellence in his field of work.

Life is an extraordinary gift some people appear not to appreciate. In every breath and scent, every touch and sight we are gifted by new experience and the chance to feel the richness of experience. Every sound we hear, from the song of a bird to the harshness of an angry voice, is a miracle.

Simplicity starts in the heart, away from negativity and pessimism.

An easy life does not make men, nor does it build nations. Challenges make men, and it is these men who build nations.

Every nation can harness the energy of its citizens, either towards constructive work to generate optimism and hope, or towards tensions, unrest and war.

Helping those less fortunate than us is a blessed opportunity to show thanks for the gifts of life that we ourselves enjoy.

The ability to live in a stable, safe environment that gives us the opportunity to create, grow and nurture our talents is sadly denied to many in the world today. I am proud to be able to say – as a leader – I can offer this to my people.

The future does not wait for hesitant people. The more we achieve, the more we realise how much more we can achieve.

Everybody starts small. We all begin life as a single cell. Every business starts as one person with an idea. How fast you go, how far you get, is in your hands. The bigger your vision, the bigger your achievement will be. Will you stumble on the way? Perhaps, but we cannot let fear keep us small. We have to be brave to be big.