UAE Delegation Strengthens Strategic Technology Cooperation With Finland Through High-Level Meetings

A UAE delegation, led by Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, recently completed a productive three-day visit to Finland. This trip aimed to enhance collaboration in advanced and emerging technologies, building on a previous visit that identified key areas for cooperation. The focus was on strengthening ties in telecommunications, AI, semiconductors, defense technologies, energy, and space innovation.

In Helsinki, the delegation met with Justin Hotard, President and CEO of Nokia. Discussions centred around expanding cooperation in telecommunications and digital infrastructure. Both countries share a vision to influence the global innovation landscape in ICT. This shared goal was further highlighted during Sharaf’s meeting with Antti Vasara from Finland's Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

The UAE team also engaged with Wärtsilä on advanced energy solutions and maritime technologies. Additionally, they explored opportunities in satellite and space innovation with ReOrbit. These discussions aimed at fortifying existing partnerships while exploring new avenues for strategic cooperation between the two nations.

The delegation visited Oulu, known as Finland’s hub for emerging technologies. They toured Nokia’s Over the Air Validation Area (OTAVA) and the new Nokia Campus. This provided insights into cutting-edge developments in telecommunications and Nokia’s 6G Flagship initiatives. The visit underscored the importance of technological advancements in fostering international partnerships.

A roundtable meeting concluded the Oulu visit with BusinessOulu, Oulu Chamber of Commerce, and leading Finnish technology companies like Bittium, KNL, and Conlog. These companies are advancing critical projects across various technology sectors, focusing on defense and dual-use technologies.

UAE Delegation's Composition

The UAE delegation included Amna Fikri, UAE Ambassador to Finland & Estonia; Waleid Al Mesmari from EDGE Group; and other stakeholders from G42, EDGE, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their presence highlighted the UAE’s commitment to deepening international cooperation in advanced technology sectors.

This visit emphasized the UAE’s strategy of sustained engagement with Finland to foster partnerships that drive innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth. By collaborating closely with Finnish counterparts, the UAE aims to enhance its technological capabilities while contributing to global advancements in these fields.

With inputs from WAM