2009-11-08 21:01:43
Abu Dhabi, Nov 08th, 2009 (WAM)--Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chaired here today the Cabinet session held at the Presidential Palace in presence of Lt. General H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

The cabinet named Sheikh Saif bin Zayed as Chairman of the UAE Emiratisation Council (UEC). Last May, the cabinet approved the establishment of UEC, which will include representatives of local and federal Emiratisation authorities and councils.

The council is responsible for formulating policies and standards to promote Emiratisation and for supporting the development of skills and competitiveness among nationals.

The cabinet members approved formation of a council for the Emirati companies which have overseas investments. The decision was made in order to help such companies with their investment decision making processes by providing them with up to date indicators of UAE investments all over the world.

The cabinet also sanctioned authorisation of an Emirati standard specification for plastic bags and other bio-degradable plastic materials.

The standard specification is aimed at specifying provisions and requirements for such bags, within the government's policy for maintaining public health, safety and environment through curbing the use plastic products and replacing them with biodegradable materials.

The cabinet okayed a move to upgrade UAE's diplomatic representation in Uzbekistan from a consulate to an embassy in Tashkent. The move reflects the keenness of the UAE's leadership and government to strengthen ties of friendship and cooperation with Uzbekistan.

The cabinet agreed a decision to provide a financial grant as a contribution by the government of the UAE to the plans of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for air safety in Africa.

The cabinet members reviewed a proposal on the country's participation in the 15th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 15), to be held on 7-8 December.

They discussed a number of topics on the meeting's agenda and took appropriate decisions on them.

WAM/MAB