Al Bitar named deputy director general of EDA

Retired Major General Omar al Bitar, UAE's former ambassador to China, has been named deputy director general of the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA).

Al Bitar has vast experience overseeing the development of military education, leadership and career development during his time in the armed forces. He was also instrumental in bringing a branch of the Paris-Sorbonne University to Abu Dhabi.

"Major General Omar al Bitar will be a great asset to the work and future direction of the Academy given his academic background as we are about to welcome our second cohort of students in late August," EDA Director General Bernardino Leon said. "He has also developed a unique take on diplomacy which will offer a much needed holistic approach to our diplomats. In the modern world of diplomacy and international relations, there is a need to work with multiple actors from all corners of the political and business world and his wide ranging experience will bring unique insight and perspective as we develop our courses and thinking built on his track record of success."