The UAE has signed an agreement to join the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Fund for Youth Support in the Sahel and Lake Chad Region, in an effort to support development in disadvantaged regions.
The deal was signed during the 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul over the weekend.
The fund aims to empower youth in the Sahel and Lake Chad region by integrating youth into development, promoting a moderate approach to countering extremism and terrorism, and reducing poverty rates through youth employment and training programmes.
The Fund's charter, which is headquartered in Mauritania’s capital Nouakchott, comes as part of its efforts to strengthen cooperation and support sustainable development.

Sheikh Mohammed honours Egyptian professor with 'Great Arab Minds' award
UAE announces $550 million for UN’s 2026 Global Humanitarian Overview
UAE bans travel to Mali, urges nationals to return
Rain, dusty conditions forecast across UAE from December 12
UAE continues to send aid to assist flood-hit Sri Lanka