Chinese Premier seeks to cement trade ties with UAE

DUBAI: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has urged enterprises from China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to embrace new cooperation opportunities during his official visit to the UAE.

Speaking at the UAE-China Business Forum, Li highlighted the historic significance of the current juncture in China-UAE relations, emphasising the need for both nations to collaboratively navigate a crucial phase of economic and trade cooperation.

The call for action comes at a time when bilateral ties are flourishing, presenting myriad opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Premier Li articulated a vision predicated upon high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, urging enterprises to leverage the strengths of their bilateral relations while maintaining a global outlook.

He underscored the importance of exploring partnerships and expanding markets strategically, suggesting that the synergy of their combined efforts could yield unprecedented results.

Notably, his discussions with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, reinforced this sentiment, as both leaders recognised the steady growth in the strategic partnership between their nations.

Exploring new avenues

The importance of enhancing cooperation across various sectors—including trade, technology, and culture—could not be overstated, and both leaders expressed an eagerness to explore new avenues for collaboration.

A focal point of Li’s address was the alignment of each country’s development strategies. By identifying intersections in their strategic priorities, China and the UAE can deepen their collaboration in burgeoning sectors such as new energy, tourism, and advanced manufacturing.

The approach not only facilitates mutual growth but also fosters a spirit of cooperation that could serve as a model for other nations. As he outlined the potential for a more integrated approach to global industrial supply chains, Li emphasised the urgency of acting on these opportunities as they arise.

40 years of cooperation

Moreover, Premier Li called for an emphasis on innovation and technological advancement, noting its critical role in driving future cooperation. In a rapidly evolving digital economy, both nations stand to gain significantly from collaborating in cutting-edge fields—such as artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

Li’s encouragement to UAE firms to invest in China highlights a mutual expectation for enhanced economic engagement, reflecting a shared belief that robust entrepreneurial collaboration will sustain and enrich their bilateral economic ties.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE, a milestone that serves as a testament to the enduring partnership established between the two countries. Premier Li pointed out that their economic ties are deeply rooted in historical trade traditions and shared values, which have evolved over a millennium.

As both countries navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected global economy, they have actively endorsed economic globalisation, creating developmental miracles through open cooperation and mutual benefit.