Ras Al Khaimah Marks One Year Of Achievements Since Cooperation Agreement With Guangdong Province
Ras Al Khaimah has celebrated a year of fruitful collaboration with Guangdong, China's most populous province. This partnership, formalised on 21st November 2024, in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi and Guangdong's Governor Wang Weizhong, aims to enhance cooperation across key sectors. The agreement has led to significant developments in education, transport, culture, research, and archaeology.
Three pivotal agreements have been established between RAK Transport Authority and Guangdong partners. The first involves WeRide and marks the beginning of autonomous driving trials in Ras Al Khaimah. H.H. Sheikh Saud experienced a ride on the 'Robobus' at Al Marjan Island. Another agreement with XPENG AEROHT will introduce flying cars for tourism and emergency rescues in the Emirate.
RAK Medical and Health Sciences University has expanded its global reach through partnerships with Guangdong institutions like Sun Yat-sen University. These collaborations encourage student exchanges, joint research, Chinese language learning, and the introduction of Chinese medical practices in Ras Al Khaimah.
Cultural Exchanges and Archaeological Research
The Department of Antiquities and Museums is working with GMU and GZUCM on material analysis, food bioarchaeology, medical anthropology, exhibitions, and scientific events. Additionally, an MoU with Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts supports joint exhibitions and artist exchange programmes.
Infrastructure Developments
RAK Ports has teamed up with Jianhua Holdings Group to establish a Prestressed High Strength Concrete Piles Factory at RAK Maritime City Free Zone. This project is expected to generate up to 500 new jobs in Ras Al Khaimah.
Further Partnerships and Future Prospects
Agreements are underway between Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dongguan People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. Discussions continue across various fields to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah's ties with Guangdong Province, aligning with the Emirate’s vision for global engagement through cooperation.
Over the past year, 18 government delegations have exchanged visits between Ras Al Khaimah and Guangdong. These interactions build on the momentum from Sheikh Saud’s visits to Guangdong in 2024. The ongoing dialogue reflects a commitment to mutual growth and shared prosperity.
In arts and culture, further collaboration includes an agreement with China's Guangdong Museum for joint research, workshops, training programmes, and technical exchanges. Another partnership focuses on ceramic studies and conservation along Silk Road trade routes.
The third transport agreement involves Foshan Institute of Environment and Energy Technology. It aims to boost hydrogen-powered urban transport cooperation in Ras Al Khaimah. This initiative supports zero-emission public transport aligned with the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.
The Al Qasimi Foundation's cultural initiatives include an MoU with Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts for academic exchanges. Two artists from GAFA will participate in the 14th Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village.
Ras Al Khaimah's partnership with Guangdong Province continues to evolve across diverse areas of interest. This aligns with the Emirate’s vision for openness and shared prosperity through international cooperation.
With inputs from WAM
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