The plans include social media regulations and nutritional labels on food…

In light of Islamic New Year on Saturday August 31, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai has created a series of new directives for the season ahead. A committee has been formed by the UAE cabinet to carry out these tasks, headed up by H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

Sheikh Mohammed said, “Our message was delivered, and actions are more important than words. We will fulfill what we have promised. I reiterate my confidence in all ministers and leaders to assume their responsibilities to our people.”

A meeting was held to create a 100-day plan for the committee. Some of the topics discussed include:

Social media regulation

The National Media Council (NMC) have been directed to regulate social media sites and implement strict standards to ensure the reputation of the UAE is protected, both regionally and internationally. The Government Communication Office of General Secretariat of the Cabinet will also keen an eye on live news and social media feeds to address citizen’s enquiries and grievances.

Emiratisation

Although Sheikh Mohammed has stressed that this is an issue of high priority, the cabinet will organise another meeting to discuss the topic.

Healthcare services

A range of healthcare plans were approved, all specifically working towards improving healthcare services in the UAE. The committee ‘aim to create a healthcare system with the participation of all related sectors, to raise the health standards of the community, achieve prosperity, and provide healthcare services to all citizens and residents.’

Nutritional information

A new policy has been adopted to introduce nutritional information labels to food products which ‘aims to promote public health and encourage people to choose healthy foods’. The labels will follow a red, amber and green categorisation, similar to those used in European countries. The mandatory information will include sugar, salt and fat contents, as well as calories.

Communicable disease control

In a bid to create a healthy environment without communicable diseases, the cabinet adopted the ‘National Policy for Communicable Disease Control’. This will assist sick people, promote community health and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in combatting communicable diseases.

Council restructuring

Two government councils will be restructured: the Health Council to enhance the public health and happiness of community members; and the Industrial Coordination Council under chairmanship of the Minister of Energy and Industry to take advantage of the successful expertise of national companies in this sector.

International relations

Various international relations have been approved, including agreements with Mali, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Belaruse, South Sudan and Brazil.

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