Dubai Forum Marks 40 Years of UAE-China Diplomatic Relations with Vision for Future Cooperation

Dubai: The Dubai Forum, a significant event commemorating four decades of diplomatic relations between the United Arab Emirates and China, convened leaders from various sectors to discuss pathways for enhancing bilateral engagement. Over 400 representatives participated in the forum, which focused on key areas such as new energy, youth empowerment, and media collaboration. According to Emirates News Agency, the forum was co-organized by the Chinese Consulate General in Dubai, the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), the China Public Diplomacy Association, and Dubai Chambers. Themed '40 Years Together for New Developments', the event aimed to explore new avenues of cooperation between the two nations. Key speakers included Zhang Yiming, Chinese Ambassador to the UAE; Abdulla Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of Foreign Trade and Industry at the Ministry of Economy; and Wu Hailong, President of China Public Diplomacy Association. Ambassador Zhang Yiming emphasized that the bilateral relations between the UAE and China are at their strongest, with both countries engaging in pragmatic cooperation across multiple sectors. He highlighted the UAE's ambitious development strategies and noted that the partnership encompasses advanced manufacturing, digital economy, artificial intelligence, and investment. The ambassador underscored the substantial trade relationship, with bilateral trade exceeding US$50 billion in the first half of 2024. Mona Al Marri, Director-General of GDMO, stated that the Dubai Forum serves as a platform for fostering UAE-China collaboration based on shared values. She stressed the role of media technologies in enhancing cultural understanding and international influence. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah of Dubai Chambers reiterated the commitment to sustainable development and international economic cooperation. Ou Boqian, Consul-General of China in Dubai, remarked on the forum as a milestone in the bilateral partnership, focusing on future cooperation in energy, media, and youth empowerment. Wu Hailong h ighlighted the forum's role in setting new goals for the evolving relationship and addressing global challenges together. The forum's sessions addressed green transformation, youth empowerment, and the role of media in international cooperation. Maryam Al Mulla of the Dubai Press Club highlighted media's potential in bridging cultures and promoting collaboration between the two nations. Supported by entities like Emaar Properties and Huawei Technologies UAE, the event concluded with a commitment to deepening ties and exploring new opportunities for cooperation. The UAE-China relationship has seen significant growth, with non-oil trade reaching AED296 billion ($81 billion) in 2023, marking a 4.2 percent increase from the previous year. China remains the UAE's largest non-oil trade partner and a leading import source, with the UAE actively participating in China's Belt and Road Initiative.