Sharjah Diplomatic Day Strengthens International Ties And Economic Resilience

The Department of Government Relations (DGR) hosted the annual Sharjah Diplomatic Day during the 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024) at Expo Centre Sharjah. This event drew over 120 distinguished guests, including diplomats, economic and trade advisors from around the globe, and senior officials from the emirate.

On the first day of IGCF 2024, two significant panel discussions were held: ‘Diplomacy: The Language of Global Development’ and ‘The Impact of Government Communication on Economic Resilience in Sharjah's Government.’ These sessions featured Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, along with prominent ambassadors, parliamentarians, and leaders from Sharjah's governmental bodies.

Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the event highlighted Sharjah’s dynamic investment and tourism opportunities across various sectors. It underscored the emirate’s role in fostering cultural, economic, and cross-cultural dialogue through its numerous exhibitions, conferences, and events. These initiatives aim to reinforce Sharjah’s status as a premier destination for foreign investments and a vital economic and cultural hub in the region.

A key panel discussion titled ‘Diplomacy: The Language of Global Development’ acknowledged the cultural and economic bonds between the UAE and China. This session featured Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi and Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the UAE. They discussed how the bilateral relationship between Sharjah and China deepens cultural dialogue and drives robust economic cooperation.

The second panel discussion focused on ‘The Impact of Government Communication on Economic Resilience in Sharjah's Government.’ This session explored diversifying national economies, advancing technological localisation through diplomacy, and future economic sectors' trajectory. Participants included Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab from the Sharjah Advisory Council, Omar Al Mulla from Sharjah Asset Management, and Mohammed Al Musharrkh from Sharjah FDI Office.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi emphasised Sharjah's strategic location within the UAE. He stated: "The UAE is a reliable security and energy partner, and we continue to invest in our financial and logistics infrastructure to be a key part of the global economy's supply chain. Sharjah plays a key role here as it is strategically located in the middle of the country. We have ports on both sides of the coast."

He also highlighted his recent visit to China with a large delegation to explore collaboration opportunities. "I went to China for the first time this year with a large delegation and identified different opportunities for collaboration. My challenge lies in encouraging them to see the opportunities that Sharjah provides," he said.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Zhang Yiming shared insights into China-UAE relations: "This year is special as we celebrate 40 years of diplomatic ties between China and the UAE. In the last decade, bilateral relations have expanded rapidly." He noted that their bilateral trade reached US$95 billion last year with a target of US$200 billion by 2030.

Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab discussed UAE's economic strategy: "The UAE is part of several economic blocs and has become an economic power through soft power, strategic signing, comprehensive deals and agreements." She emphasised that Sharjah aims to build a sustainable knowledge-based economy by diversifying revenue sources.

Mohammed Al Musharrkh highlighted Sharjah’s achievements in attracting foreign direct investment: "In 2023, Sharjah ranked fifth worldwide in terms of growth of attractive foreign direct investment projects." He mentioned that their role involves communicating government economic messages to investors globally.

Diversification Efforts

Omar Al Mulla spoke about Sharjah Asset Management’s efforts: "Sharjah Asset Management is leading the way in achieving economic diversification by expanding across multiple industries." He added that they aim to attract more foreign investments by providing advanced logistical services, supportive legislation, and well-developed infrastructure.

Sharjah Diplomatic Day remains a significant annual event for DGR. It focuses on strengthening diplomatic relations between diplomatic corps in the UAE and leaders from Sharjah’s government.

With inputs from WAM