Listen to this article  |
H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, delivered a keynote address at the 24th China International Fair for Investment & Trade (CIFIT), signaling a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between Ras Al Khaimah and China. The event, hosted at the Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center, witnessed the presence of over 200 high-level government officials, including the Vice Premier of China, Hé Lìfēng, alongside global corporate leaders.
Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth
In his speech, H.H. Sheikh Saud underscored the importance of strengthening collaborations between international partners, emphasizing sectors such as sustainable development, trade, and education. He pointed out that strategic cooperation and mutual investments are crucial for forging new opportunities and achieving shared global goals. “By working together to advance common goals and interests, we can forge a new investment landscape, with inclusive, sustainable, and mutually beneficial growth,” he stated. This vision reflects the growing recognition of China as an essential partner in Ras Al Khaimah’s pursuit of economic diversification and sustainable development.
Ras Al Khaimah’s Vision for the Future of Investment
The collaboration between Ras Al Khaimah and China has already facilitated numerous exchanges and visits, further enhancing trade and collaboration. H.H. Sheikh Saud highlighted the potential of these initiatives, noting that they not only enhance economic ties but also foster people-to-people connections and workforce development. The focus is not just on enterprises but on the broader ecosystem that includes community engagement and educational exchanges.
He expressed optimism about the future, stating, “In Ras Al Khaimah, we look forward to taking our shared history of trade relations into a new era of cooperation. Investment in enterprises, workforce development, and people-to-people connections will be the catalysts for greater cooperation and success.”
Ras Al Khaimah at CIFIT: Showcasing Opportunities and Growth
During CIFIT, Ras Al Khaimah was represented at the “Invest in Ras Al Khaimah” pavilion, where key organizations, including the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Marjan, RAK Properties, RAK Ports, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), and RAKBANK, showcased the emirate’s unique investment opportunities. This pavilion highlighted Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic position as a gateway for global investors looking to tap into the rapidly growing markets of the Middle East and beyond.
H.H. Sheikh Saud also engaged with the media, including prominent Chinese outlets such as CCTV, China Daily, Fujian Daily, and Xiamen Daily. In his interactions, he outlined Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for future collaborations across various sectors, emphasizing the emirate’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable investment environment.
Engaging with UAE and Global Business Leaders
The event also saw Sheikh Saud engaging with a UAE business delegation, supervised by the Ministry of Economy, representing various emirates. Discussions centered on the importance of participating in CIFIT, one of the largest and most influential investment fairs in China, drawing more than 1,000 business delegations, 5,000 companies, and 50,000 business professionals.
These engagements underscored Ras Al Khaimah’s proactive approach to positioning itself as a key player on the global investment stage. With a focus on nurturing long-term, mutually beneficial relationships, Ras Al Khaimah continues to attract significant interest from investors seeking a stable and growth-oriented environment.
A Landmark Year for UAE-China Relations
The visit of H.H. Sheikh Saud to CIFIT coincides with a significant milestone: the UAE and China are celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations in 2024. This historic milestone is a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations, marked by shared economic interests and strategic alliances.
CIFIT marks the first leg of a broader six-day visit to China by Sheikh Saud, which includes stops in Dongguan and Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. These visits will see Sheikh Saud engaging with political, cultural, and business leaders, further cementing the ties between Ras Al Khaimah and key Chinese cities.
CIFIT: A Premier Platform for International Investment Relations
CIFIT, hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, is one of the world’s premier platforms for international investment relations. Held annually in Xiamen, it has evolved into a significant forum where government and business leaders from more than 100 countries converge to explore new investment opportunities. The event’s scale and scope underline the critical role CIFIT plays in facilitating cross-border investments and fostering economic growth.
The participation of Ras Al Khaimah at CIFIT reflects the emirate’s commitment to expanding its global reach and establishing itself as a preferred destination for international investments. By actively engaging in such high-profile events, Ras Al Khaimah continues to drive forward its strategic vision of economic diversification and sustainable development.
Forging Ahead with a Vision of Inclusive Growth
As Ras Al Khaimah looks to the future, the emirate remains committed to creating an inclusive investment landscape that prioritizes sustainable and mutually beneficial growth. The ongoing collaboration with China serves as a cornerstone of this vision, offering vast opportunities for both nations to explore new avenues of cooperation.
The participation of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi at CIFIT and his broader engagements in China mark a new chapter in the UAE-China partnership. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to advancing common goals, enhancing economic ties, and building a future defined by growth, inclusiveness, and sustainability.
