Abu Dhabi, Aug 12 (IANS/WAM): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will on Sunday observe "International Youth Day", highlighting the great importance attached to the welfare and progress of the youth.

The UAE government seeks to empower the young generation and prepare them to contribute to the welfare of the Emirati community by instilling in them leadership qualities and by engaging them in the decision-making process, both at the legislative and executive levels, said the agency.

"Our leadership has dedicated a lot of attention to the youth and ensured that they are well prepared to contribute to the nation's ongoing development drive," said Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, in a statement to WAM.

She added that the UAE policy was based on investing in human capabilities, particularly the youth as being the country's most treasured resource for the sustainable development drive, led by President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, among others.

She indicated that the UAE's policies for empowering the youth were focussed on education and innovation, as well as on providing a conducive environment for them to excel and play a vital role in the society.

She referred to the steps taken by the UAE to engage the youth in the development process, including the approval by the Cabinet in 2016 to the formation of the Emirates Youth Council and the Federal Youth Authority.

Earlier this year, the UAE announced the launch of the Arab Youth Opportunity Platform, the largest initiative of its kind, featuring opportunities for Arab youth in different specializations.