Mohammed's speech at the opening of the FNC's 4th session

The following is an edited translation of a speech given by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the opening of the 4th ordinary session of the 14th legislative chapter of the Federal National Council.

My brothers, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, Excellencies, members of the Federal National Council (FNC), ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests

May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon you

In the name of God and with His blessings we open today the 4th ordinary session of the Federal National Council's 14th legislative chapter. On behalf of myself and my brothers, the members of the Supreme Council, I would like to extend my warm greetings to you. I would also like to salute the pivotal role that the FNC plays as the cornerstone of our federation and as one of the major factors of success on our blessed march.

Brothers and sisters

We followed with great interest the work carried out by the council during the previous session; work which met our high expectations and reflected your commitment to the interests of the country and its citizens. Your discussions also confirmed that you are worthy of our trust and the confidence that citizens have placed in you. The hard work, perseverance and seriousness apparent in your deliberations revealed a high degree of awareness of your responsibilities; through this you emphasised that our parliamentary development is in honest hands that are keen to provide all that is good for the country and its citizens.

The honest cooperation of your esteemed council with the government has enriched its work, just as it has benefited from your comments, recommendations and suggestions in advancing public work. Your contribution has also helped the government to improve any deficiencies in services provided for citizens. We thank you for this cooperation; we hope that your role will continue to be the mirror through which we evaluate the performance of government agencies and public institutions to ensure maximum transparency in work and commitment to duty.

Brothers and sisters

This session is convened in light of many developments, the most prominent of which, perhaps, is the global financial crisis which has affected the whole world. Despite the negative impact, the economic turmoil has proved that our economy is vigorous and is capable of dealing with the repercussions of the crisis with strong determination and professionalism. We are also confident that the curative steps we have taken so far will help restore our economy to a position where it can continue to lead the march of development and reconstruction with increased confidence and resolve. Our national economy is integrated and protected by the union as the final option that will triumph over all challenges that we may face.

My brothers and sisters

Political participation and parliamentary work in the UAE has always been a thoughtful process that stems from our circumstances and needs. This experience has given us a unique model of democracy as evidenced by the broad participation of women in the membership of the Federal National Council and its discussions. It is indisputable that their participation in parliamentary life in the UAE has had real sense and purpose.

My brothers and sisters

Our faith in political participation as a concept and our desire to support its practice, make us confident that our parliamentary experience will move forward and develop as time goes on.

As we renew our trust in you, we wish you success during this new session and hope that you will enhance your parliamentary work through the courage of opinion and strength of argument, as well as the ability to defend the public interest.

May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon you.