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ABU DHABI, 28th November, 2022 (WAM) – A European delegation including MEPs and nine children aged 12 to 17 concluded a visit to the United Arab Emirates. The delegation, led by Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Member of the European Parliament (MEP), Human Rights Coordinator of the European Parliament EPP Group, discussed with UAE officials the UAE government’s efforts on two key themes: ‘Technology for a better future’ and ‘ Children’s right to a safer environment.
The visit discussed the role of technology and innovation in building a sustainable future, the contribution of children to this process, the need to protect youth from the dangers of new technologies, and the UAE’s efforts to end violence against women and children.
The UAE Children’s Parliament meeting was held on Friday and was attended by Economy Minister Abdullah bin Touk Al Maari and Secretary-General of the Supreme Maternal and Child Council Reem Farasi.
During the meeting, Al Marri discussed increasing government support for creative and innovative children, especially in the area of patents and intellectual property.
Emirati and European children exchanged ideas on their cultures, aspirations and concerns for the future of the planet; online safety; the impact of technology; and how they can contribute to a safer online environment. Members of the UAE Children’s Parliament also explained how they are involved in decision-making on issues involving their present and future.
In a separate session, Lieutenant Colonel Dana Al Marzouqi, Director of International Affairs at the Ministry of the Interior, emphasized the importance of governments and policymakers providing safe spaces for youth online and using modern technology.
“We are working to build a better world for them and are proud to play a leading role, working with like-minded partners from governments, private sector entities and civil society around the world to develop solutions and share experiences,” Lt . Col. Dana Al Marzouqi said.
“An interesting discussion with Lt. Col. Dana Al Marzouqi highlighted the need for more global communication to successfully combat child sexual abuse globally,” said MEP Isabel Wiseler-Lima.
Delegates visited a number of important cultural sites and institutions, including Masdar City, where they met innovators who are developing technological solutions to climate change. They also visited the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI),
Dubai’s Future Lab and Museum of the Future, where they research the future of the city over the next 50 years.
Romanian MEP Alin Mituta from the Renew Europe Group commented: “Our visit to Masdar City was very insightful, allowing us to understand how new technologies can help build a better and more sustainable future. Collaboration will help enable digital and ecological transformation.”
Delegates then traveled to the Al Wathba Desert to explore the UAE’s rich heritage during the Sheikh Zayed Festival.
During the three-day visit, participants learned about the UAE’s history, experienced its development, and learned about the country’s vision for the future.
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