FNC to launch community-oriented programmes

The Federal National Council, FNC, one of the five federal authorities of the UAE established by the Constitution, will mark its 45th anniversary on 12th February, with a glowing tribute to the makers of the Union.

The council was founded in 1972.

''We remember with pride the founding father of the Union, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and other fellow rulers of the emirates for the great efforts they made several decades ago in laying a strong foundation for the Union and instilling principles of consultation as a basis for relationship between the ruler and the people,'' FNC Speaker Dr. Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi said in a statement during the seventh session of the 16th Legislative Chapter on Tuesday.

''Our leadership is continuing its efforts to increase the participation of citizens in political life through a gradual process consistent with the empowerment programme launched by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2005,'' she stated, adding that the 45th anniversary of the FNC would celebrate a bright history full of hard work, achievements and developments.

''The 45th anniversary comes on the heels of the launch of 2016-2021 Parliamentary Strategy - the first of its kind in the region - in order to fulfil the aspirations of the UAE leadership for the present and the future of the Union and its people," she said.

''The strategy seeks to strengthen national unity and good citizenship, and elevate the legislative and supervisory frameworks in line with best international standards so as to deliver the UAE Vision 2012 and advance its foreign policy through an active parliamentary diplomacy and constructive community participation,'' she added.

''The house will further consolidate its constructive co-ordination, integration and co-operation with the government and work as one team,'' Al Qubaisi said.

"As we mark this anniversary, the 40-member house will launch several community-oriented initiatives and programmes in pursuit of its strategic objectives," she added.