UAE and China Forge Stronger Ties in High-Profile Dubai Meeting

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Dubai to discuss enhancing the UAE-China strategic partnership. The leaders focused on expanding cooperation across several sectors, including trade, tourism, and renewable energy, while addressing regional and international developments.

Dubai [UAE], September 12 (ANI/WAM): Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, today met with Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China. The leaders discussed the growing strategic partnership between the UAE and China and explored new avenues to expand ties.

The meeting at Za'abeel Palace highlighted the steady growth of UAE-China ties under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The discussions spanned various political, economic, commercial, and cultural issues, with both leaders emphasizing the need to deepen cooperation to serve mutual interests and aspirations.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; and several ministers and senior officials attended the meeting. Sheikh Mohammed expressed pride in the strong UAE-China partnership and highlighted opportunities to create pathways for a prosperous global future. He stressed the UAE's commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, tourism, renewable energy, technology, education, and culture.

The meeting highlighted the positive impact of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's historic visit to Beijing in May, which led to numerous agreements boosting bilateral relations. The leaders commended the growth in economic ties, with UAE being China's largest Arab trading partner and China being UAE's top partner. In 2023, non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately AED296 billion. They explored new investment opportunities and ways to boost collaboration between private sectors of both nations. The meeting also noted the UAE's robust infrastructure, flexible regulations, and secure environment supporting investor confidence and business growth.

The leaders discussed the UAE's crucial role in the global economy and its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. The UAE's strategic location, world-class ports, exceptional logistics capabilities, and advanced infrastructure significantly contribute to the initiative. The discussion covered the latest regional and international developments, especially in the Middle East. The leaders emphasized exploring new solutions for achieving comprehensive peace, enabling the region to advance sustainable development and meet its people's aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.

(With inputs from agencies.)