UAE PM Meets Chinese Counterpart To Boost Partnership, Explore New Avenues

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, met with his Chinese counterpart, Li Qiang, to discuss the growing partnership between the UAE and China and look for new ways to strengthen their relationship.

The meeting was held at Za'abeel Palace in Dubai, and the two leaders discussed how ties between the two countries have grown under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, along with several ministers and senior officials.

The discussions covered topics such as politics, economics, trade, and culture. Both leaders stressed the importance of working together more closely to benefit both nations, WAM reported.

The officials also talked about the UAE's important role in the global economy and its involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative. They highlighted how the UAE's strategic location, top-notch ports, excellent logistics, and advanced infrastructure help it make a major contribution to the initiative.

They also discussed recent regional and global developments, particularly in the Middle East. Both leaders emphasized the need to find new solutions for achieving fair and lasting peace, which would help the region develop sustainably and meet the people's hopes for a secure and prosperous future.

During the meeting, positive results of the UAE president's visit to Beijing in May were also highlighted, noting that it led to several agreements and strengthened relations between the UAE and China.

The two sides also praised the growth in economic ties, with the UAE being China's largest trading partner in the Arab world and China being the UAE's top trading partner. In 2023, non-oil trade between the two countries reached around AED 296 billion.

The two officials also discussed new investment opportunities and how to increase cooperation between businesses in both countries. The meeting noted that the UAE's strong infrastructure, flexible rules, and safe environment make it an ideal place for investors to succeed and grow their businesses.

Last month, Dubai Chambers signed an agreement with the China Construction Bank (CCB) – DIFC Branch to boost investment and help Chinese companies expand in the emirate.