The Majalis Affairs Office at the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court has organised a lecture on Political Participation and the Federal National Council (FNC) Elections – one of a series of seminars – in collaboration with the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs (MFNCA).

His Excellency Tariq Hilal Lootah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of State for FNC Affairs, said: “The Ministry adopts various innovative initiatives that allow it to reach its strategic objectives, promote political participation, and raise awareness within UAE society, thus empowering citizens to safeguard our country’s achievements, play an active role in the holistic development taking place across the country, and realise our leadership’s ambition for the UAE to rank first across various sectors.”

“The lecture resonates with the Ministry’s vision to improve political awareness and introduce the community to the Political Empowerment Programme, launched by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan,” H.E. Lootah added.

The lecture featured Dr Abdullah Sulaiman, Director of the Political Development Department at the MFNCA, who began by thanking the initiative’s patron H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for his commitment to these gatherings as a means to foster communication and promote culture, knowledge and awareness among people regarding important issues, all while creating further cooperation among government entities.

Dr Sulaiman noted that the Political Empowerment Programme, launched by UAE President H.H. Sheikh Khalifa, on the 34th UAE National Day in 2005, promotes political participation in the community, paving the way for UAE Nationals to take part in the country’s political life and decision-making process. It empowers the Federal National Council to offer support and guidance to the executive branch of the Government.

The lecturer delved into the Programme’s principles, most notably, the gradual approach to activating the FNC’s role, drawing on other similar experiences, in addition to abiding by the concept of Shura, in accordance with the UAE’s values. The Federal National Council plays an effective role in society, he explained, giving voice to citizens, addressing their needs and concerns, and assisting Government agencies in drafting their laws in a manner that ensures public interest and the happiness of citizens and residents.

Dr Sulaiman went on to note that as the UAE begins preparing for FNC elections of 2019, another accomplishment can be added to the UAE’s track record. He called for widespread support for anything that is in the country’s best interest, especially the FNC’s efforts in communicating the aspirations of the people, striving for excellence, and shaping a prosperous future for present and coming generations.

The Director of the Political Development Department concluded his lecture reaffirming that voting and electing competent representatives is a means to express loyalty to one’s country and its leadership, and urging voters to take part in the elections and ensure a high voter turnout.

This lecture is part of a series of activities organised by the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs to promote political awareness and enhance communication with all segments of society. It also serves to achieve the Ministry’s vision and strategic objectives to build long-term national partnerships.