FNC signals start of new era

Abu Dhabi: The inauguration yesterday of the historic 14th session of the Federal National Council, the first to include elected members, underlines an "ambitious national vision" towards greater participation in the development of the UAE, declared President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The inauguration, which coincided with the 35th anniversary of the FNC, was attended by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates and senior officials.

Shaikh Khalifa said, "Hopes for our country and our aspirations for our citizens have no limits ... our expectations for the future are getting stronger as we enter a new era that reflects an ambitious national vision."

The vision includes "a charter and roadmap characterised with Shura [consultation] and supremacy of law to enable members of society to actively and positively help to build the future of the country."

The President highlighted the importance of the recent electoral process that saw 20 of 40 FNC members elected by the Electoral College. Nine women sit in the house, including one who was elected.

"Today is an historic turning point in the march of the nation as we, leaders and people, work together to cement the pillars of this modern country and look forward to a political system that achieves Shura, establishes justice, allows security to prevail and enables citizens, men and women, to actively and positively participate in leading this country and plan for its future in accordance with the constitution and rule of law," Shaikh Khalifa said.

The FNC then began its first session, chaired by Abdullah Nasser Huwaileel, the eldest member. In a secret ballot, Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair was elected Speaker, Ahmad Shabeeb Al Daheri First Deputy Speaker and Ali Jasem Second Deputy Speaker.