Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid calls for leap forward in transport and energy sectors

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid called for the UAE to boost its transport and energy sectors to cement its status on the global stage.

The Vice President and Ruler of Dubai said the Emirates must take significant strides to remain competitive in the years ahead.

Sheikh Mohammed's message came as he held talks with members of the recently formed Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.

He was briefed on the ministry's blueprint for the next decade by Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.

Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE boasts a logistical system that is unrivalled in the region, but said it was not possible to maintain ''our logistical excellence without enhancing the quality of the infrastructure and developing the transport sector by achieving qualitative leaps that mirror our aspirations for the next stage''.

"We want to achieve a qualitative leap in infrastructure, energy and transport fields as part of a vision that combines inclusiveness and integration and takes into account balance and sustainability and enhances our competitiveness regionally and globally," he said.

"The private sector is the engine of work in the future, and we will work to develop its contribution in infrastructure, energy, transportation and housing projects in the framework of an integrated partnership."

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of ensuring decent housing provisions are available for Emirati citizens to bolster family stability and community security.

Mr Al Mazrouei revealed plans to cut the cost of managing and maintaining government buildings and facilities by up to 20 per cent.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, also attended the meeting.