Latest news with #SaqrGhobash
Gulf Today
25-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
FNC calls for reviewing housing installments, social allowance system
During its 12th session in Abu Dhabi, chaired by Saqr Ghobash, the Federal National Council (FNC) called for a comprehensive review of the social allowance system and housing installment policies, linking them to the number of children in a family. The FNC also urged the inclusion of fertility treatments under insurance coverage across all UAE emirates. It recommended that the social allowance and housing installments, based on the Cabinet decision No. 6 of 1981 should be linked to family size and loan repayment periods. Maternity leave duration and breastfeeding hours under the Federal Human Resources Law and Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on labour relations were requested to re-discussed. The FNC requested to study granting childcare leave for working mothers in public and private sectors, explore reducing work hours for mothers, and assess its impact on career paths and financial benefits. The FNC has called for the launch of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at enhancing fertility rates in the UAE. The strategy should include clear performance indicators to measure the effectiveness of government programmes and initiatives. The Council emphasised the need to strengthen government initiatives which encourage and facilitate early marriage for young men and women. It also stressed the importance of developing qualitative and quantitative indicators to ensure the effectiveness of existing health policies aimed at increasing fertility rates. The Council has recommended the establishment of a Federal Fertility Centre, taking into account the geographic distribution of existing centres. The proposal includes a comprehensive plan to attract specialised professionals in the field of fertility, expand continuous medical education and training programmes, and create specialised academic programmes in collaboration with local and international universities. The Ministry of Health and Prevention was also called to coordinate with local authorities to strengthen oversight and inspection of all fertility assistance centres, with a priority to conducting specialised studies and research on factors influencing fertility rates. Additionally, the FNC urged the launch of an awareness and educational campaign highlighting the importance of boosting fertility rates and raising awareness about the risks of delaying marriage and childbirth.
Gulf Today
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
FNC holds special ‘UAE and EU' session
The Federal National Council (FNC) convened a special 'UAE-European' session today, chaired by its Speaker, Saqr Ghobash, as part of the second term of the 18th legislative chapter. The session was held at the Zayed Hall at the Council's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, and witnessed the presence of Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, alongside several ministers, senior officials, and ambassadors of European Union member states accredited to the UAE. The session opened with a welcome speech by Saqr Ghobash, in which he extended a warm greeting to Roberta Metsola and her accompanying delegation. He also welcomed Abdullah Bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, and Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also in attendance were EU ambassadors, European business leaders who have established companies and ventures in the UAE, members of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, the Emirates Youth Councils, and the Children's Parliament. In his remarks, Ghobash expressed gratitude for Metsola's visit, emphasising that such engagements reaffirm the UAE's belief in constructive dialogue, openness to the world, and the values of human tolerance as pathways to peace and prosperity. 'We are honoured by your presence as esteemed guests,' he said. 'We also celebrate your role as partners in a dialogue rooted in shared parliamentary values, values that reflect a unity of conscience in our common humanity and a mutual effort to promote noble policies that place human dignity at the forefront.' He paid tribute to the vision of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose legacy continues under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. WAM
Al Etihad
23-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
FNC hosts meeting of GCC Legislative Councils, European Parliament President in Abu Dhabi
23 June 2025 20:21 ABU DHABI (WAM) The Federal National Council (FNC), chaired by Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of FNC and President of the 18th Regular Meeting of the Speakers of GCC Legislative Councils, hosted a high-level meeting on Monday with Roberta Metsola, President of the European gathering took place at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, bringing together the heads of the Gulf Cooperation Council's legislative meeting was attended by Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain; Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, Speaker of the Shura Council of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Khalid Hilal Al Maawali, Chairman of the Shura Council of the Sultanate of Oman; Yousef bin Ali Al-Khater, Chairman of the Internal and External Affairs Committee of the Shura Council of Qatar, and Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).In his opening remarks, FNC Speaker stated that this meeting represents a milestone in the evolution of Gulf–European parliamentary relations. It reflects a shared understanding of the need to deepen institutional dialogue, broaden avenues for coordination, and solidify channels of consultation between parliamentary institutions, which now serve as key bridges of understanding between the peoples of the GCC and also emphasised that ties between the GCC states and Europe stretch across various historical phases and have taken multiple forms, rooted first in trade, maritime routes, and knowledge exchange, and now expanded into contemporary partnerships across the economic, security, political, cultural, and social spheres. These relations, he noted, are the fruit of mutual awareness and a genuine appreciation for each party's regional and international added that GCC–European relations took on greater clarity and depth with the establishment of the GCC, through which its member states have sought to strengthen relations with the European Union, recognising the EU as a major player in the international order and a source of advanced institutional experience. Conversely, Europe has come to recognise the Gulf region as a promoter of moderation in global politics and a key contributor to regional and international her part, Metsola expressed her gratitude to the UAE for the warm welcome, openness, and commitment shown in hosting this historic meeting.'We gather at a time when the security situation in the Middle East remains deeply concerning,' she stated. 'I commend your concrete commitments to peace and stability, both within the region and beyond. Your countries have hosted ceasefire negotiations in several conflicts, and we are partners in confronting terrorist attacks, combating maritime piracy, and choosing the path of diplomacy.''In this context,' she added, 'the partnership between the European Union and the GCC is not only essential but strategic.'Al Budaiwi delivered a speech in which he expressed his appreciation to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his steadfast support for GCC unity and for hosting this important meeting. He also extended his gratitude to Saqr Ghobash for his initiative in convening the session, emphasising the significance of continued high-level visits and dialogue between the two sides.
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
FNC holds special ‘UAE–EU' session
The Federal National Council (FNC) convened a special "UAE–European" session today, chaired by its Speaker, Saqr Ghobash, as part of the second term of the 18th legislative chapter. The session was held at the Zayed Hall at the Council's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, and witnessed the presence of Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, alongside several ministers, senior officials, and ambassadors of European Union member states accredited to the UAE. The session opened with a welcome speech by Saqr Ghobash, in which he extended a warm greeting to Roberta Metsola and her accompanying delegation. He also welcomed Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, and Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also in attendance were EU ambassadors, European business leaders who have established companies and ventures in the UAE, members of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, the Emirates Youth Councils, and the Children's Parliament. In his remarks, Ghobash expressed gratitude for Metsola's visit, emphasising that such engagements reaffirm the UAE's belief in constructive dialogue, openness to the world, and the values of human tolerance as pathways to peace and prosperity. 'We are honoured by your presence as esteemed guests,' he said. 'We also celebrate your role as partners in a dialogue rooted in shared parliamentary values, values that reflect a unity of conscience in our common humanity and a mutual effort to promote noble policies that place human dignity at the forefront.' He paid tribute to the vision of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose legacy continues under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. FNC Speaker stressed that this visit signals a deepening of parliamentary cooperation between the FNC and the European Parliament. 'It marks the beginning of a broader path for future joint initiatives on critical global concerns,' he added, 'including peace, sustainable development, climate safety, and the protection of societies from extremist and hate-driven rhetoric.' Saqr Ghobash emphasised that the tragic humanitarian deterioration unfolding in the Gaza Strip compels the international community to elevate the voice of wisdom, advocate for an immediate de-escalation, ensure the protection of civilians, and work toward a ceasefire that paves the way for a political resolution, one that restores hope for peace and security to the Palestinian people. He further stressed that from the same principled stance, the UAE reaffirms its deep concern over the ongoing regional tensions, particularly the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities, which pose serious risks and could drag the region into unprecedented instability. 'In this context,' he said, 'we underscore the UAE's consistent position that diplomacy and dialogue must prevail as the only means to resolve disputes. Comprehensive approaches that promote stability, prosperity, and justice are essential. In times like these, wisdom and responsibility demand sincere engagement in addressing the region's chronic challenges through negotiation.' In her address to the FNC, Metsola said that relations between the European Union and the UAE have entered a new phase of renewed partnership. This partnership, she said, is grounded in the principles of peace, prosperity, and a forward-looking openness. She praised the UAE as a global model for coexistence and progress, and for building partnerships based on dialogue, trust, and shared responsibility. Metsola also commended Abu Dhabi's international stature as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and stability, and lauded the UAE's efforts to promote parliamentary diplomacy and its leadership in supporting global peace. 'I stand before you today representing 450 million European citizens,' she said, 'carrying a message of hope and optimism that this visit will mark a new beginning for strengthening our bilateral ties and expanding the horizons of partnership between the European Parliament and the UAE through constructive dialogue and cooperation.' She further highlighted the strong economic ties between the two sides, noting that the European Union is the UAE's second-largest trading partner, with mutual investments totaling €328 billion. She also pointed to tourism, educational exchange, and cultural cooperation as key pillars in strengthening the bilateral partnership. The President of the European Parliament affirmed that, 'the partnership between the European Union and the UAE is entering a new phase of strategic cooperation. With genuine political will and mutual understanding, this relationship is well-positioned to advance toward broader horizons of peace, development, and prosperity.'
Al Etihad
23-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Federal National Council holds special ‘UAE–EU' session
23 June 2025 18:20 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Federal National Council (FNC) convened a special "UAE–European" session today, chaired by its Speaker, Saqr Ghobash, as part of the second term of the 18th legislative session was held at the Zayed Hall at the Council's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, and witnessed the presence of Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, alongside several ministers, senior officials, and ambassadors of European Union member states accredited to the session opened with a welcome speech by Saqr Ghobash, in which he extended a warm greeting to Roberta Metsola and her accompanying also welcomed Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, and Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign in attendance were EU ambassadors, European business leaders who have established companies and ventures in the UAE, members of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, the Emirates Youth Councils, and the Children's his remarks, Ghobash expressed gratitude for Metsola's visit, emphasising that such engagements reaffirm the UAE's belief in constructive dialogue, openness to the world, and the values of human tolerance as pathways to peace and prosperity.'We are honoured by your presence as esteemed guests,' he said. 'We also celebrate your role as partners in a dialogue rooted in shared parliamentary values, values that reflect a unity of conscience in our common humanity and a mutual effort to promote noble policies that place human dignity at the forefront.'He paid tribute to the vision of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose legacy continues under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Speaker stressed that this visit signals a deepening of parliamentary cooperation between the FNC and the European Parliament. 'It marks the beginning of a broader path for future joint initiatives on critical global concerns,' he added, 'including peace, sustainable development, climate safety, and the protection of societies from extremist and hate-driven rhetoric.'Saqr Ghobash emphasised that the tragic humanitarian deterioration unfolding in the Gaza Strip compels the international community to elevate the voice of wisdom, advocate for an immediate de-escalation, ensure the protection of civilians, and work toward a ceasefire that paves the way for a political resolution, one that restores hope for peace and security to the Palestinian further stressed that from the same principled stance, the UAE reaffirms its deep concern over the ongoing regional tensions, particularly the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities, which pose serious risks and could drag the region into unprecedented instability.'In this context,' he said, 'we underscore the UAE's consistent position that diplomacy and dialogue must prevail as the only means to resolve disputes. Comprehensive approaches that promote stability, prosperity, and justice are essential. In times like these, wisdom and responsibility demand sincere engagement in addressing the region's chronic challenges through negotiation.'In her address to the FNC, Metsola said that relations between the European Union and the UAE have entered a new phase of renewed partnership. This partnership, she said, is grounded in the principles of peace, prosperity, and a forward-looking praised the UAE as a global model for coexistence and progress, and for building partnerships based on dialogue, trust, and shared also commended Abu Dhabi's international stature as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and stability, and lauded the UAE's efforts to promote parliamentary diplomacy and its leadership in supporting global peace.'I stand before you today representing 450 million European citizens,' she said, 'carrying a message of hope and optimism that this visit will mark a new beginning for strengthening our bilateral ties and expanding the horizons of partnership between the European Parliament and the UAE through constructive dialogue and cooperation.'She further highlighted the strong economic ties between the two sides, noting that the European Union is the UAE's second-largest trading partner, with mutual investments totaling 328 billion also pointed to tourism, educational exchange, and cultural cooperation as key pillars in strengthening the bilateral partnership. The President of the European Parliament affirmed that, 'the partnership between the European Union and the UAE is entering a new phase of strategic cooperation. With genuine political will and mutual understanding, this relationship is well-positioned to advance toward broader horizons of peace, development, and prosperity.'
