During the closing session of the UAE Cabinet, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the UAE National Charter 2021.The event was held at Liwa's Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in the Western Region under the theme, 'We want to be among the best countries in the world by 2021'. The following is an edited translation of Sheikh Mohammed's speech delivered on the occasion:
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
I am very pleased to be here at this historic site, the birth place of our fathers and grandfathers from Bani Yas, who defended and protected the surrounding areas from all adversaries. We take pride from their ability to endure suffering, poverty and arduous living conditions; our grandparents, the grandparents of Sheikh Khalifa, Mohammed, Mansour and Saif bin Zayed, managed to overcome the harsh environment and protect it with all their power, determination and resolve.
Yesterday you witnessed how we were greeted by wind and dust on our arrival here; you also saw how quickly and dramatically the weather changed. I am profoundly happy to be holding our assembly here, which is more than just an ordinary session, but an opportunity for frank and open dialogue. Already you have talked and discussed issues with great sincerity, and this is what we want from you.
The UAE can count many impressive accomplishments since its inception. We are but complementing what the founders had earlier achieved. In this regard we should remember them for their good work, and we should strive to serve our country and its people. We should also continue this journey through time with great determination and a clear vision.
There have been whispers that there will be a cabinet reshuffle, but I say that no such thing will happen now; however, all ministers and ministries will be assessed and their strategies evaluated. All of you, the people and the media are aware of that now.
Those who underperform cannot continue to serve their country and people, and will face change; we are all subject to scrutiny, but we have a clear strategy ahead of us. As Sheikh Mansour has said before, "strategy changes based on our understanding of the time and the journey."
As a country we have achieved a lot and our advancement has made some people envious. We have seen this in the media, but we don't pay attention because we are confident about ourselves and our people. An ambitious nation cannot rest on past or current achievements, but looks forward to more success by working hard and being vigilant to overcome all challenges.
This leads us to the conclusion that we must forget what we have achieved and start again. While this Vision is inspired by the principles of our founding fathers, it is also guided by the National Work Program launched by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, may Allah protect him.
The object of our vision is human, who is the centrepiece of all our thinking and attention...our vision starts and ends with him.
Through this vision we hope to achieve welfare and prosperity for all UAE citizens and solidify the bonds of our union, in which we find strength and protection. We must preserve the family ties that bind together the strong fabric of our cohesive society. Cohesion is essential for us as a nation. This comes in line with the vision of my brother, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nayan, which promotes a closely-knit society.
I have much experience working as part of a team; you have your own teams to instil you confidence, matching those around the world. We can take from this that we are one the best countries in the world. We have energy, potential, knowledge and expertise. We must continue and go forward.
The depth of friendliness and openness to people from other countries who live on UAE soil fortifies the fabric of Emirati society and preserves our harmony, which we proudly hold up in front of the world.
Our country plays host to many different nationalities so we derive all possible good from their traditions and customs. Our Arabic and Islamic rules are our original roots, and therefore we are bound to pass on our moderate Islamic values, national Identity and our Arabic language to upcoming generations.
As we discussed yesterday, globalisation is here and as a consequence we must preserve our traditions, customs and language. As for our young people who are exposed to many influences, we have to guide them, stay in contact with them and urge them to communicate with their families and tribes. The UAE remains loyal to the vision of the founding fathers, their toil and sacrifice for the sake of establishing a strong union. The union will continue in its role as the protector and benefactor of national security.
One of the foremost objectives of the union is to achieve balanced socio-economic development all over the UAE. There shall be no marginalised or isolated areas. No emirate should be left behind.
Now we will move on to some other issues to see what we will learn.
In 1971, as the union was born, the founders stood side-by-side committed to unity. With great faith they chose a path and sacrificed everything for the sake of the union.
By 2021 fifty years will have elapsed since our nation's foundation. The cabinet must continue to plan for that day, as the union is the chief guarantor of our security; this is our goal and our maxim. I say now that we should aim be one of the world's best countries, not just one of the top ten nations. We must work towards being amongst the globe's leading nations, for if we don't strive for this position we will go into decline.
Under the umbrella of a strong and secure union, UAE nationals go forward with confidence and ambition, armed with knowledge and creativity to build a strong competitive economy. They will form communities that are cohesive and coherent with their national identity. UAE nationals will enjoy the highest possible standard of living surrounded by an environment that both benevolent and sustainable. This is just one of our objectives. The UAE's strategy rests on four major principles:
- Ambitious, united and confident people, who stick to their heritage
- A strong federation with a common destiny
- Developing a competitive economy driven by UAE nationals characterised by innovation and knowledge
- Attaining a high quality of life endowed with sustainable environment
An ambitious and confident nation grounded in its heritage
Ambitious and responsible Emiratis will successfully shape their future, actively engaging in an evolving socio-economic environment, and drawing on their strong families and communities, moderate Islamic values, and deep-rooted heritage to build a vibrant and well-knit society.
A strong union bonded by a common destiny
The UAE will continue to grow as a robust and influential nation that safeguards its citizens and ensures balanced development throughout its territory, so that the country can become effective power.
A Competitive Economy Driven by Knowledgeable and Innovative Emiratis
A diversified and flexible knowledge-based economy will be powered by skilled Emiratis to ensure long-term prosperity for the UAE.
A nurturing and sustainable environment for quality living
Emiratis will enjoy the highest living standards, long and healthy lives, first-rate education and well-rounded lifestyles guaranteed by excellent public services and recreational activities, within a safe and rich natural and social environment.
Confident and socially responsible Emiratis
Emiratis will be confident citizens, steadfast in carving out their future in a spirit of entrepreneurship and responsibility, engaged in the course of their nation and embracing moral values for richer fulfilment.
Cohesive and prosperous families
Cohesive and prosperous families will form the cornerstones of society, embracing the traditional values of marriage, continuing to empower women, and maintaining close ties between family members to ensure their rightful role in society.
Strong and active communities
Strong and active communities will continue to make up the fabric of a vibrant and well-knit Emirati society, reinforcing a bond of solidarity among citizens in a spirit of openness towards residents.
Vibrant culture
The UAE's distinct culture will remain founded on progressive and moderate Islamic values and endowed with a rich Arabic language, to proudly celebrate Emirati traditions and heritage while reinforcing national identity.
Upholding the legacy of the nation's Founding Fathers
The UAE Federation will uphold the legacy of our Founding Fathers to ensure balanced development throughout the Emirates, through active coordination among levels of Government and integrated national planning and execution in all policy areas.
Safe and secure nation
The UAE Government will continue to be the custodian of a safe and secure nation, ensuring economic resilience and stability, upholding fairness and justice, and offering an advanced welfare system to allow all Emiratis to overcome adversity and contribute positively to society.
Enhanced international standing
The UAE's international standing will continue to grow as its successes highlight its prestige as a regional and international role model, developing sectors of excellence and national champions.
Harness full potential of National human capital
The UAE will harness the full potential of its National human capital by maximising the participation of Emiratis, encouraging entrepreneurship, and nurturing home-grown public and private sector leaders while attracting and retaining the best talent.
Sustainable and diversified economy
The UAE will benefit from a sustainable and diversified economy, flexible in adopting new economic models, and capitalising on global economic partnerships to guarantee long-term prosperity for current and future generations of Emiratis.
Knowledge-based and highly productive economy
Innovation, research, science and technology will form the pillars of a knowledge-based, highly productive and competitive economy, driven by entrepreneurs in a business-friendly environment where public and private sectors form effective partnerships.
Long and healthy lives
The UAE will promote long and healthy lives for all Emiratis by providing equitable access to world-class medical care while actively protecting against health hazards through awareness and prevention.
First-rate education
All Emiratis will have equal opportunity and access to first-rate education that allows them to develop into well-rounded individuals, enhance their educational attainment, and achieve their true potential, contributing positively to society.
Well-rounded lifestyles
The UAE will nurture high quality of life built on world-class public infrastructure, government services, and a rich recreational environment.
Well-preserved natural environment
As a leader of the green revolution, the UAE is conscious of its responsibility to safeguard nature and mitigate the effects of climate change on its habitat and ecosystems in order to ensure that future generations inherit an environmentally sustainable world.
If anyone has any questions or comments please say so...
Thank you for your attendance, the past couple of days were really remarkable.
