UAE ministers and officials have stated that the signing of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with the Republic of Sierra Leone marks a significant step in efforts to enhance economic partnerships and expand trade and investment presence in Africa. This initiative supports sustainable development goals and strengthens the linkage between emerging economies and global markets.
The agreement aims to create new avenues for cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, industry, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure, while fostering innovation, technology transfer, and enhancing supply chains.
This partnership is part of the UAE’s comprehensive economic partnership agreement program, establishing the country as a global hub for trade and investment and driving mutual economic growth that benefits both nations.
A Valuable Addition
His Excellency Mohammed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, emphasized that the signing of the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone represents a valuable addition to the UAE’s expanding network of international trade agreements, enhancing its appeal as an investment destination.
This agreement aligns with our ongoing efforts to diversify the economy and meet our national objectives. By strengthening financial ties and removing trade barriers, we contribute to building a more resilient economic landscape capable of responding efficiently to global challenges.
A Significant Opportunity
His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone presents a significant opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation in vital sectors, particularly renewable energy and infrastructure. Given Sierra Leone’s rich resources and its willingness to invest in development, the country is poised to launch projects capable of transforming its energy landscape.
The agreement is designed to stimulate investments in crucial areas, including clean energy, transportation, and sustainable infrastructure. By leveraging the UAE’s advanced technology and expertise, we aim to enable Sierra Leone to achieve its ambitious development goals and elevate its standing in the global energy market. This partnership not only fosters trade but also focuses on building a legacy of investments that will generate long-term benefits for both nations.
Quality Partnerships
His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, affirmed that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement between the UAE and Sierra Leone aligns with the wise leadership’s vision to enhance international cooperation and build quality partnerships that contribute to economic diversification.
The agreement bolsters sustainable growth and increases industrial productivity, supporting the growth of priority industrial and technological sectors in both countries.
He added that the agreement provides a practical framework for expanding partnerships in advanced industry, clean energy solutions, and technology transfer, which enhances value chains and boosts the competitiveness of the industrial sector, especially in light of the abundant natural resources and emerging market in Sierra Leone, thereby opening promising avenues for industrial and technological investment.
Trade Links
His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, remarked that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone is a qualitative step in the long-term trade and investment relations between the two nations.
The agreement is based on a strong foundation of trade exchanges, which have shown an upward trajectory, reaching a value of $153 million by 2025. As Sierra Leone’s primary trading partner in the Arab world, the UAE is committed to enhancing trade links that serve the interests of both nations.
The agreement is designed to remove trade barriers, stimulate investments, and enhance cooperation across key sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, and technology. Through our comprehensive economic partnership with Sierra Leone, we expand our companies’ access to markets while solidifying the UAE’s role as a pivotal center for global trade.
A Key Station
His Excellency Ahmed bin Ali Al Saigh, Minister of Health and Prevention, stated that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement between the UAE and Sierra Leone serves as a key station to enhance cooperation in areas directly related to community health and quality of life.
The agreement provides a practical framework for expanding partnerships in vital sectors including healthcare, medical industries, and supply chains related to health security, supporting readiness, prevention, and sustainability.
Promising Opportunities
His Excellency Abdullah bin Touk Al Mari, Minister of Economy and Tourism, expressed that the comprehensive partnership with Sierra Leone represents an important step in strengthening the UAE’s economic and investment links with the African continent in vital and advanced sectors.
At its core is the new economy, particularly as Sierra Leone is an emerging economy offering numerous promising opportunities across various fields, including infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable energy.
He continued that this new partnership plays a pivotal role in facilitating smoother access for UAE companies and their exports to African markets, fostering communication between the Emirati and African business communities, and providing a supportive environment for mutual cooperation, which is essential for reciprocal economic growth.
A Sustainable Partnership
His Excellency Mohammed Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment, noted that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone is a qualitative achievement in improving bilateral investment ties and reflects our shared commitment to building a long-term sustainable partnership.
Sierra Leone, with its abundant natural resources and growing economy, provides promising prospects for cooperation in vital sectors, including agriculture, clean energy, and infrastructure development.
The agreement will act as a strong driver for increasing investment flows and enhancing the role of the private sector. As the UAE continues to implement an ambitious growth agenda, this agreement aligns seamlessly with the goal of expanding its global investment presence.
Environmental Sustainability
Her Excellency Dr. Amina bint Abdul Rahman Al-Dahhak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone represents a qualitative opportunity to advance our shared goals related to environmental sustainability and food security.
This partnership will enable us to explore pioneering agricultural technologies and sustainable practices essential for ensuring the resilience of our food systems. By integrating our efforts, the agreement will enhance supply chains and build cooperative frameworks that support biodiversity and sustainable land use.
A Crucial Bridge
Ahmad Abdullah bin Lahij Al Falesi, Director General of Customs and Security at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, stated that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing the UAE’s position in global trade and our role as a crucial bridge to the African continent.
By modernizing customs procedures and removing trade barriers, we are committed to facilitating a smoother flow of goods between our two countries. By leveraging innovative technology and best practices, we aim to improve processing efficiency and logistics services.
Economic Diversification
His Excellency Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, asserted that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement between the UAE and Sierra Leone represents an important step in supporting the country’s economic diversification and international partnerships.
The agreement contributes to enhancing financial cooperation, facilitating cross-border transactions, and improving investment flows, thus supporting market efficiency and strengthening financial stability.
Future Corridors
His Excellency Abdullah Mohamed Al Bastaki, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Dubai, stated that the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Sierra Leone enhances the UAE’s position as a globally trusted trade partner.
It deepens bilateral cooperation in key economic sectors such as technology, tourism, and agriculture, laying the groundwork for more promising growth in trade and investments between the two friendly nations. With Dubai positioned as an international economic center at the crossroads of global trade routes, it serves as a gateway for African exports to the world while offering valuable opportunities for trade and investment sectors on both sides.