Sheikh Diab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Head of the Presidential Court for Development Affairs and Families of Martyrs, emphasized the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to strengthening economic collaboration with China.
The remarks were made during his attendance at the official opening ceremony of the 2025 China International Import Expo in Shanghai, alongside Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
In addition to Sheikh Diab, the event was also attended by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, Said bin Mubarak Al Hajri, Minister of State, and Hussein Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China.
The UAE is participating in the eighth edition of the expo as a “Guest of Honor,” an invitation from China reflecting the deep friendship and cooperative ties between the two nations, further enhancing their comprehensive strategic partnership.
During the opening speech, Sheikh Diab conveyed the greetings of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and his wishes for the success of this distinguished international event.
He stated, “The UAE-China relationship has become a model for cooperation based on mutual respect and shared interests, thanks to the vision of the leaders of both countries.”
Since the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership in 2018, significant progress has been made across various vital sectors, especially in economic and trade areas.
Sheikh Diab added that the UAE’s participation in this expo underscores the country’s desire to bolster economic cooperation with China, facilitate business community interactions, and explore new opportunities in technology, clean energy, industry, and logistics.
He confirmed that the Belt and Road Initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development and economic diversification. Since joining the initiative in 2013, the nation has seen the implementation of several strategic projects in collaboration with Chinese companies, with the national railway project being one of the most notable.
The UAE currently plays a pivotal role in the international trade ecosystem, serving as a major gateway for Chinese goods entering the Middle East and North Africa, as over 60% of China’s total trade with the region passes through it, highlighting its status as a global center for trade and re-export.