Marrakech: Aisha Rashid Laytim, a member of the Federal National Council (FNC), participated in the 4th edition of the Marrakech Parliamentary Economic Forum for the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf Region. The event was hosted by the House of Councillors of the Kingdom of Morocco in cooperation with the Parliamentary Network of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
According to Emirates News Agency, during a session focused on promoting job creation through the blue economy, Laytim emphasized that the blue economy is rapidly expanding globally, offering substantial economic and investment opportunities in areas such as ports, maritime transport, sustainable tourism, renewable energy, marine industries, and food security. She stated that it has become a crucial component of global economic security and sustainable development.
Laytim further highlighted the role of small and start-up enterprises as key drivers of innovation in modern economies. Their adaptability to technological shifts and responsiveness to market needs are crucial for creating employment opportunities, especially for the youth. She mentioned that successful economies today are characterized by legislative and financial frameworks that support entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into viable business ventures.
Laytim also pointed out the UAE's commitment to supporting the blue economy, establishing itself as a global hub for ports, logistics services, and maritime trade. She noted the UAE's development of policies that encourage entrepreneurship, the digital economy, and innovation, facilitated by flexible legislation, business incubators, financing programs, and investments in technology and artificial intelligence.
In a related session, Hashima Yasser Ali Saeed Al Afari, another FNC member, participated in discussions on the impact of climate change on food security. Al Afari underscored that climate change affects food security with direct consequences for the economic, social, and humanitarian stability of nations. She highlighted international reports indicating that more than 295 million people in 53 countries faced acute food insecurity in 2024 due to ongoing conflicts and climate change.
Al Afari added that nearly 80% of the global population most vulnerable to crop losses and hunger due to climate change resides in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. These regions have high poverty rates, with farming households disproportionately affected compared to other societal segments.
The sessions saw the participation of several FNC members, underscoring the UAE's active role in addressing pressing global economic and environmental challenges.
Source: Emirates News Agency