Abu Dhabi, March 11, 2015: In line with the efforts of the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs to promote citizen empowerment to achieve national development, a lecture was organised at the Officers Training Institute at the Ministry of Interior in Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by Colonel Dr. Ahmed Ali Alkhzimi, Director of the Officers Training Institute, and a large number of officers and employees of the Institute.

Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Tariq HilalLootah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs, stated: The ministrys ongoing campaigns among all segments of the society seek to build national awareness about the political empowerment programme launched by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

H.E. Lootahadded: "The lecture signifies a continuation of the ministrys approach to achieve its strategic goals. The ministry has already implemented several educational activities and awareness lectures for the vital sectors in the UAE society, including youth and women. The effort is to maintain sustained communication and interaction with the members of the community to serve the common good.

During the lecture, H.E. Dr. Saeed Mohammed AL Ghufli, Assistant Undersecretary for Federal National Council Affairs, explained in a working paper that effective community participation is an important element in the countrys march towards development and prosperity under its wise leadership. H.E. AL Ghufli stressed the ministry is keen to promote the spirit of collective responsibility to make the future.

HE also explained tangible outcomes of this programme such as the first elections to the Federal National Council in 2006, as well as constitutional amendments in 2009 which granted the Federal National Council a wider regulatory role, as well as conduct of the electoral process in 2011 with expansion of the electoral college. The third election of the Federal National Council will be conducted this year.
H.E. Dr. AL Ghufli noted that the Federal National Council plays a central role in supporting the Federal executive, and enables the members of the community to express their opinion on the government policies as well as convey their concerns to the government.

Colonel Dr. Ahmed Ali Alkhzimi, Director of the Officers Training Institute, emphasised the importance of promoting a culture of social responsibility and a sense of belonging among the citizens to ensure greater prosperity and stability.