Inaugural UAE-China Think Tank Forum Enhances Bilateral Cooperation

The UAE Embassy hosted the inaugural UAE-China Think Tank Forum in Beijing from 29th to 30th August 2024. This event marked a significant step in strengthening the bilateral relations between the UAE and China, which have seen substantial progress under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Xi Jinping.

During the forum's launch, UAE Ambassador to China, Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, highlighted the deepening ties between the two nations. He noted that these relations are advancing across various sectors, including economic, trade, cultural, political, and diplomatic areas. "This forum represents an opportunity to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as trade, education, and culture," Al Hammadi stated.

The forum was held under the theme "Together to build a shared, sustainable and ambitious future." It saw participation from over 100 academic, intellectual, and scientific figures from universities, ministries, governmental departments, research institutions, the private sector, and national and international financial institutions from both countries.

The event featured four sessions over two days. The first session focused on "Enhancing Regional and Global Peace through Multilateralism." The second session addressed trade, logistics, and economic recovery. On the second day, discussions centred around technology, the new industrial revolution, education, culture, and tourism. The final session concluded with a brief discussion summarising key points.

Participants discussed various topics related to enhancing cooperation and partnership between the two nations. The forum aimed to align academic and research circles on mechanisms to strengthen comprehensive cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as economic and trade exchange, scientific research, culture, and education.

Historical Context of UAE-China Relations

The forum coincided with the 40th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the UAE and China in 1984. These relations have evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership since July 2018 when President Xi Jinping visited the UAE. The relationship received a significant boost following President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's state visit to Beijing in May 2024.

UAE-China relations are considered exemplary on the global stage. The UAE is China's largest non-oil trading partner in the Arab region. In contrast, China is the UAE's number one trading partner with a trade value of US$82 billion in 2023. Trade exchange between the two countries has increased by about 800 times since diplomatic relations were established.

Future Prospects for Collaboration

The forum also sought to provide a platform for collaboration and dialogue between think tanks in both countries. It explored opportunities for joint academic projects between top think tanks from both nations. Al Hammadi emphasised that scientific and research cooperation receives special attention from both countries' leaderships.

He added that they are committed to providing all means to develop collaboration in promising fields like renewable energy. "Through cooperation in scientific and intellectual research and joint projects," he said, "we contribute together to developing solutions to global challenges."

The volume of trade exchange between the UAE and China is targeted to reach US$200 billion by 2030. This ambitious goal underscores the importance of forums like this one in fostering deeper ties between both nations.

This forum marks a milestone in bilateral relations between the UAE and China. It opens new horizons for collaboration and partnership across various sectors.

With inputs from WAM