UAE Parliamentary Speaker Calls for Stronger Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf Cooperation to Drive Sustainable Development
Marrakech, The Gulf Observer: Speaker of the UAE Federal National Council (FNC), Saqr Ghobash, has called for enhanced economic cooperation, parliamentary engagement and the exchange of expertise between Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf countries to address rapid economic and technological transformations and advance sustainable development.
Speaking at the 4th Marrakesh Parliamentary Economic Forum for the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf Region, Ghobash said the participating countries possess the resources, markets and expertise necessary to build a successful model of regional economic and development cooperation.
He described the forum as an important platform for translating shared aspirations into practical initiatives, projects and partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of the region.
Ghobash emphasized that economic integration, increased trade and investment, infrastructure and logistics development, and knowledge-sharing are key drivers of sustainable growth and enhanced competitiveness.
He underscored the importance of investing in human capital, noting that empowering youth, improving education and vocational training, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and expanding women’s participation in economic activity are essential components of long-term development.
The FNC Speaker highlighted the transformative potential of technological advancements, the digital economy and artificial intelligence, stating that these sectors offer significant opportunities to accelerate economic growth and improve quality of life. He stressed the need for continued investment in innovation, digital infrastructure and skills development to maximize these opportunities.
Addressing sustainability, Ghobash said investment in the green economy, renewable energy and innovative environmental solutions can help countries achieve economic progress while supporting a more sustainable future.
He noted that the United Arab Emirates has adopted a development model centered on human capital, economic diversification, innovation and sustainability, while actively expanding international partnerships to promote shared prosperity and long-term growth.
Ghobash also highlighted the critical role of parliaments in supporting development by enacting modern legislation, improving the investment climate, encouraging innovation and strengthening transparency and good governance.
According to him, parliamentary diplomacy serves as an effective channel for dialogue, knowledge exchange and support for initiatives that foster stronger economic and development cooperation among nations.
He urged parliaments across the region to continue advancing legislative reforms and economic initiatives while enhancing engagement among stakeholders to effectively respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.
“The shared capabilities and ambitions of Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf countries provide a strong foundation for deeper cooperation and the establishment of partnerships that promote sustainable growth and prosperity across the region,” Ghobash said.
Expressing optimism about the forum’s outcomes, he voiced hope that the gathering would lead to practical initiatives and long-term partnerships that further strengthen regional cooperation and contribute to sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Ghobash also highlighted the longstanding and growing relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Morocco, noting that bilateral ties continue to expand across various sectors under the guidance of the two countries’ leaderships, reinforcing cooperation and strategic partnership.
