President His
Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has emphasised the commitment that
exists to maintain the constitution and to preserve rights and freedoms, these
being the pillars of political work at all the institutions.

He said: “While preserving the constitution, we respect our Islamic
belief, UAE traditions and norms.

” Inaugurating the second ordinary
session of the 15th Legislative Chapter of the Federal National Council, the
UAE President said in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Vice President
and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum, that “We are going forward firmly to bring our political
experience to its (desired) ends so as to achieve development and expand
participation. We are also looking forward to the pivotal role of the FNC, as a
supportive and control authority to further strengthen the government with its
visions and innovative ideas.”

Sheikh Khalifa noted that the FNC has
witnessed a qualitative development with regards to the experiment in expansion
of participation that resulted in the holding of the second elections on
September 24, 2011.

He added that this was one of the phases of
the gradualist political empowerment programme launched in 2005 to activate the
role of the FNC.

The UAE President underlined that the UAE
constitution protects rights and freedoms. “This makes the UAE a paradise
for citizens and expatriates. All live in peace in a tolerant community that is
free from segregation and injustice.”

Sheikh Khalifa said Emirati women received
full support from the leadership, noting that they have exhibited ability and
responsibility and have come to occupy top jobs. “I called upon my
daughters to sustain the efficiency and dedication they have demonstrated so
far.”

“Your membership in this Council is a
great trust and responsibility,” he told its members. “Governance
here belongs to those who have bestowed their trust on you. So be solicitous to
maintain your eligibility to have received this trust and be committed to the
interests of the country and the citizens.”

Sheikh Khalifa called on the FNC members to
communicate always with fellow citizens and to protect the bond between the
various segments of Emirati society “in our quest to entrench the culture
of consultation and participation in decision-making, as well as to emphasise
the importance of individual opinions in formulating the opinion of the
society.”

He greeted Their Highnesses the Supreme
Council Members and Rulers of the emirates for their virtuous efforts in
strengthening the pillars of the union. “I also greet every citizen, man
and woman, who has contributed through his or her work to the building of our
beloved nation and our precious union.”

Sheikh Khalifa concluded, “Dear
Members of the Council, I thank you and your predecessors. You have performed
your duty with sincerity and integrity and we expect from you more effort and
selfless work.”