Arusha:The UAE Parliamentary Division of the Federal National Council (FNC) will participate in the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the 218th session of the Governing Council, which is hosted by the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania from October 5 to 9, 2026. The delegation will be led by Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Division.

According to Emirates News Agency, the meetings will focus on the theme "Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all." The General Debate will provide a platform for delegates to discuss, share views, and stimulate parliamentary action on this overall theme.

The Assembly will also adopt resolutions on an emergency item and on a subject addressed by the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights, titled "Inclusive social development for all Parliamentary strategies to promote the rights and empowerment of people living with disabilities." An outcome document related to the General Debate theme is anticipated as well.

IPU statutory bodies, including various Standing Committees, the Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, and the Committee on Middle East Questions, will convene. Additionally, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the Forum of Young Parliamentarians will hold sessions.

Discussions in committees and working groups will cover topics such as military artificial intelligence, oversight of extractive industries, mental health, artificial intelligence's impact on children's rights and the future of work, healthy food in the context of climate change, and the protection of mountain and ocean ecosystems. A review of the United Nations Charter will also be conducted.

During the Governing Council meeting, a new IPU President will be elected to succeed Dr. Tulia Ackson, whose term concludes in October 2026.