BEIJING, Dec. 5, 2024 (Xinhua) – Hussein bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to China, said recently in an exclusive interview with Xinhua News Agency that “We celebrate diplomatic relations between the Arab Emirates United and China this year, marking the fortieth anniversary of its founding, is considered a distinguished model of strategic partnership, as relations between the two friendly countries are characterized by mutual trust, cooperation global vision and a common vision of global challenges. »
The ambassador highlighted that thanks to the vision of the leaders of the two countries, bilateral cooperation has been strengthened to include various areas such as clean and lasting energy, trade, tourism, culture and education. This leadership role has contributed to the signing of strategic agreements, increasing bilateral investments and the institution of exhibitions, conferences, forums and summits that reflect the commitment of both countries to develop relations towards horizons wider.
Speaking on economic cooperation, the ambassador said that economic relations represent the fastest growing and developing aspect of UAE-China relations, as China is the largest trading partner of the United Arab Emirates and the UAE is also China’s largest trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa in terms of non-bilateral trade, underscoring the two countries’ determination to achieve bilateral trade volume at 200 billion dollars from here 2030.
Al Hammadi highlighted that the UAE hosts a large number of chinese companies that operate in a favorable environment that enhances opportunities for growth and innovation, given that the UAE is considered a major center of attraction for Chinese investments in the Middle East region, adding: “We also have greater ambitions to increasingly increase the UAE’s investments in China, including…It is in the interests of both peoples and of the two friendly countries. »
He added that the UAE was one of the first countries to join the Belt and Road Initiative, which opened a vast door of opportunities for the two countries, helping to expand bilateral cooperation in all areas. He also highlighted that the UAE’s accession to the BRICS group this year is an crucial milestone that reflects its commitment to cooperate with the world’s emerging economies to promote global peace,stability and prosperity.
On the other hand, the ambassador said that cooperation between the UAE and China in the field of renewable energy is experiencing growing momentum and that this cooperation reflects a common strategic vision aimed at promoting the transition to clean energy and green and achieve sustainable progress. the Al Dhafra Solar PV Power Plant Project was launched in Abu Dhabi, considered one of the largest solar PV power projects in the world, and the Emirates Wind Power Program in Abu Dhabi, which began to operate in 2023, with these two projects being built by chinese companies, representing an critically important step towards achieving the UAE’s goals in the field of renewable and clean energy.
Educational and cultural exchanges also constitute one of the main pillars of bilateral relations between the two countries. The ambassador said educational and cultural exchange programs have been a major driving force that has strengthened relations between the UAE and China and opened new horizons for academic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
in this context, Al hammadi highlighted that the opening of the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Center for the Study of Arabic Language and Islamic Studies at the Beijing Foreign Studies University was one of the most important initiatives which constituted a bridge to strengthen mutual understanding between the two countries. While initiatives such as the 200 language teaching schools project have played a major role in Chinese and the UAE Confucius Institutes play a vital role in promoting language and culture teaching Chinese, as the Chinese language is in great demand and widespread distribution in the emirates, and it is now taught in a growing number of local schools.
Al Hammadi went on to say that the tourism sector is one of the main areas of cooperation between the two countries, as the total number of Chinese tourists to the Emirates reached over one million visitors in 2023, with more flights organized every week between the two countries, via Emirati and Chinese airlines.
Al Hammadi added: “today, thanks to the wise leadership of the two countries, both countries are making steady progress towards a prosperous and sustainable future, as they continue to build bridges of communication and joint cooperation for the benefit of two peoples and for the future of generations.»
Xinhua
How do cultural exchanges between the UAE and China contribute to their diplomatic relations?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Hussein bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Ambassador Al Hammadi. It’s a pleasure to speak with you, especially as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China.How do you assess the current state of this partnership?
al Hammadi: Thank you for having me. The 40th anniversary of our diplomatic relations marks a significant milestone. I believe our relationship can be characterized by mutual trust and cooperation, as well as a shared vision of addressing global challenges. Over these years, our strategic partnership has evolved remarkably, covering various sectors including clean energy, trade, tourism, culture, and education.
TNE: That sounds impressive. Can you elaborate on some of the key areas were the UAE and China have collaborated to drive this partnership?
Al hammadi: Certainly. The leadership of both nations has played a pivotal role in strengthening our ties. We’ve signed numerous strategic agreements that have enabled us to foster bilateral investments. Additionally, we have organized exhibitions, conferences, and forums that embody the commitment of both countries to elevate our relations. As an example, in the realm of energy, we are collaborating on clean and sustainable energy projects that are crucial for both our futures.
TNE: economic cooperation seems to be a significant focus of this partnership, as you mentioned that it is rapidly growing. Can you share some statistics to highlight this growth?
al Hammadi: Absolutely. Economic relations between our two nations represent the fastest-growing aspect of our partnership.Such as, china is currently the largest trading partner of the UAE, and conversely, the UAE is China’s largest trading partner within the MENA region for non-bilateral trade. We are ambitious in our goals, aiming to achieve a bilateral trade volume of $200 billion by 2030, which reflects our collective determination.
TNE: With such an ambitious target in mind, what strategies are being employed to reach this goal?
Al Hammadi: We are fostering a business-kind surroundings that attracts Chinese companies to operate in the UAE. We provide several incentives, including regulatory frameworks that support foreign investments, innovative infrastructure, and an efficient, connected market. These elements create a favorable atmosphere that encourages economic growth and collaboration.
TNE: There’s also a cultural exchange component to this relationship. How do you see culture playing a role in further enhancing UAE-China relations?
Al hammadi: Culture is indeed a crucial element of our partnership. By promoting cultural exchanges, educational initiatives, and tourism, we build a deeper understanding and thankfulness between our peoples. This fosters goodwill and strengthens connections, which in turn support our economic and strategic goals. the UAE hosts a vibrant Chinese community, which is essential for enriching our cultural ties.
TNE: Lastly, with global challenges constantly evolving, how do you envision the future of UAE-China relations in addressing these issues?
Al Hammadi: I believe our collaboration will only deepen in addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and economic resilience. Both nations recognize that by working together and leveraging our strengths, we can tackle these issues more effectively and set an exemplary model of international cooperation. It’s a journey that we embark on together, and I am optimistic about the prospects ahead.
TNE: Thank you, Ambassador Al Hammadi, for yoru insights and for sharing your thoughts on such an significant partnership. It’s great to see such a commitment to strengthening ties between the UAE and China.
Al Hammadi: Thank you for having me. I look forward to the continued growth of our relationship and the positive impact it will bring.