Empowerment spirit of Union

Abu Dhabi: The 15th Chapter of the Federal National Council (FNC) was inaugurated yesterday by President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who emphasised that the UAE will strive relentlessly to enhance political participation and fulfil citizens' aspirations.

The first session of the 15th FNC was also attended by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers.

Much is expected from the new council as 20 of its 40 members have been elected by a significantly larger Electoral College where the emphasis was on youth.

In his address, Shaikh Khalifa stressed that empowerment [of the House and Emiratis] would remain the spirit of the UAE's Union.

‘Not a privilege'

"We inaugurate the 15th Chapter of the Federal National Council, with larger representation and greater ability to perform its functions. We congratulate you for receiving the trust of the people and support of the leadership, and remind you that the membership of the Federal National Council is not a privilege or a matter of prestige, but an arduous responsibility placed upon you by people who have trusted and nominated you," he said.

The President urged members of the FNC to match up to the confidence reposed in them by committing themselves to the interest of the nation and the interests of citizens.

"Your convening today is a step towards our march towards deepening a culture of participation and enhancing its activities. This step is a successful enthronement in the second phase of our course to deepen a culture of participation and develop its practices," he said.

He added: "We have taken this step with full national will, and we are determined to move forward to achieve the aspirations of our people in a homeland which allows them to participate in its development and reap the benefits, a homeland which they can be proud of and feel a sense of belonging to, because such empowerment is the spirit of the federation."

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