UAE-Africa Ministerial Meeting Strengthens Cooperation In Transport And Infrastructure Sectors
Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan and Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, key figures in the UAE government, recently attended a significant ministerial meeting hosted by Etihad Rail in Abu Dhabi. This event underscored the UAE's dedication to sustainable development and international cooperation. The meeting brought together high-ranking officials from five African nations, including Kenya, Chad, South Sudan, Uganda, and Cameroon.
The gathering was a collaborative effort between the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and Etihad Rail. Its primary goal was to establish long-term strategic partnerships with African countries in transport, infrastructure, logistics, and railways. Discussions centred on Etihad Rail's projects as the developer and operator of the UAE's national railway network.
During the meeting, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan highlighted the importance of these partnerships. He stated, "Such partnerships represent an extension of the vision of the United Arab Emirates in extending bridges of cooperation with its partners in the countries of the African continent." He emphasised that these collaborations are not just about knowledge transfer but also about supporting infrastructure projects to foster national and regional development.
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei echoed this sentiment by affirming that railway transport is crucial for modern economies. He noted that the UAE is committed to building an integrated national transport system through Etihad Rail. This system connects various emirates and regions within the country and serves as a model for logistics, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
The meeting also saw the exchange of two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between Etihad Rail and ministries from South Sudan and Chad. These MoUs aim to enhance cooperation frameworks in railway infrastructure projects and facilitate knowledge exchange to improve transport systems. They include feasibility studies for developing railway, logistics, and infrastructure projects in participating countries.
Madut Biar Yel from South Sudan; Mathieu Guibolo Fanga from Chad; Davis Chirchir from Kenya; Dr. Richard Sendi Nyunzi Hans from Uganda; and Claude Ntone from Cameroon were among those who attended. Their participation underscores the commitment to leveraging UAE’s experience in developing an integrated railway system.
UAE's Commitment to Sustainable Development
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei further stated that collaborating with African nations reflects the UAE's belief in international partnership. He added that such cooperation enhances strategic international projects contributing to sustainable economic gains for all involved parties. This collaboration solidifies the UAE's role as an active partner in supporting regional and global development.
Etihad Rail has played a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's transport system by developing its national railway network. This initiative has significantly contributed to economic growth while supporting comprehensive national development efforts across various sectors.
The discussions at this high-level meeting explored how lessons learned from operating freight trains nationwide could benefit participating countries. By sharing expertise gained over more than two years of successful operations within its borders, Etihad Rail aims to assist these nations in enhancing their own railway systems effectively.
With inputs from WAM
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