• Home
• /
• Government

Emirati youth 'crucial' in FNC polls, says Gargash

Abu Dhabi - Minister says a focus on leveraging competencies of youth has made an impact on the UAE's nation building programmes.

Emirati youth could play a key role in strengthening the country politically by taking part in the Federal national Council (FNC) elections, an event was heard.
Addressing the UAE Government Leaders Programme on Thursday, Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Minister of State for FNC Affairs and Chairman of the National Election Committee, said that a focus on leveraging competencies of youth has made an impact on the UAE's nation building programmes.
Gargash said: "The UAE youth form a key pillar of the government's development strategy. The governmental organisations are keen to involve them in joint works having realised the important role that youth play in formulating and implementing strategic plans.
"Their participation in the FNC elections is, therefore, crucial, as it provides them the platform to express their hopes and aspirations, and thus contribute to the continued progress of the nation across all sectors."
"Through the electoral process, we aim to achieve maximum participation to promote the empowerment of our citizens in contributing to shaping their future and their children's future. The participation of the youth in the election is a very significant tool in strengthening political participation," he added.
He also said the election committee is committed to communicate with youngsters and listen to their suggestions, as well as educate them of the importance of participating in the electoral process, which is a main pillar in the overall development of the UAE.
During the lecture, he praised the efforts the UAE government in providing the right opportunities for youth to drive the nation's march of progress by instilling confidence in them.
He highlighted the success achieved by the UAE Government Leaders Programme, since its inception in 2008, under the guidance of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in training national cadres to be future leaders, and in preparing young talent to take up governmental and community work, through workshops, development projects, site visits, practical guidance and counseling by professionals.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com