Onjo Simson

  The UAE played a major role in exchanging prisoners between Russia and Ukraine. The UAE is a key player in solving conflicts through diplomacy as it was evident in the recent case between Russia and Ukraine. Prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine served as proof thereof where150 people were released during the fourth major prisoner exchange in 2017 by the UAE . Instead, this demonstrates how Dubai keeps in touch with Kiev and Moscow even on such matters hence showing how delicately it balances on the international scene. The latest conversation between these two countries shows that UAE is very good at diplomacy. This means that there has been progress in trying to calm down trouble hot areas which are within the same geographical precincts. Even till today when wars rage on, UAE remains an important player in making peace through its remarkable connections on all fronts. The UAE's mediating role is even more important to global efforts towards peace in the face of turmoil with...

  Sheikh Mohamed visited Beijing on Thursday as the president. UAE signed multiple deals with China to enhance cooperation in vital fields including investments, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), industry and technology, and tourism. These accords amount to milestone towards boosting the strategic partnership among nations. In addition, the two countries agreed to spur investment cooperation in green development as reported by the State news agency WAM. This decision is in line with UAE’s wider strategy of enhancing relations with China, the second largest economy in the world. The UAE is already China's largest trading partner in the Arab world according to the data available, and trade and investment span various sectors such as crude oil, petrochemicals, and artificial intelligence. In 2022, the non-oil bilateral trade between China and UAE accounted for Dh264.2 billion ($72 billion). The collaboration of this is still largely manifested in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) l...

  On Thursday, the tenth session of the Arab-Chinese Cooperation Forum was attended by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Beijing to stress the urgency for Arab-Chinese cooperation and international efforts towards an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. In his keynote address, Sheikh Mohamed pointed out increasing tensions in the Middle East, notably severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza Strip thus/emphasizing important/major need for global response united action. He restated goals to enhance the Arab nations’ relationship with China by working together for mutual gain emphasizing that Arab countries could not solve their problems by themselves, pointing out that without this alliance, they cannot deal with the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The President also asked for a fair and comprehensive peace in the region, suggesting that establishing two states might result in enduring peace. Sheikh Mohamed noted that Arab-Chinese Cooperation Forum demonstrates ...

This week President Sheikh Mohamed embarks on state visits to South Korea and China where he will be focusing on trade deals, advanced technology and security. This visit signifies the UAE’s plans to promote economic relations, foster technological advancement and move away from oil dependence through diversifying its economy. Sheikh Mohamed is expected to travel to South Korea for a two-day visit that starts on Tuesday, followed by a visit to China on Thursday. The main aim is to acquire high-level technologies from these East Asian countries according to Shigeto Kondo, a senior researcher of Japan’s Institute of Energy Economics. Both nations are endowed with flourishing fields of specialization particularly in energy, where the UAE is keen on facilitating technology transfers, with the UAE being the biggest trade partner of China among Arabic countries due to its significant investments in various fields like petrochemicals, crude oil and artificial intelligence. Chinese investments...

  The Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO) Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed met with ZHU Yonglei, the Vice-Minister of the National Radio and Television Administration of China on discussion centered on enhancing cooperation in the media sector. The two parties showed keen interest in enhancing collaboration through various media domains and sharing knowledge which is a matter of great concern. Focusing on how important this relation was, Sheikh Abdulla stated that UAE and China have a variety of close links that keep growing stronger mainly because both countries’ top leaders continue visiting each other with a commitment to boosting relationships and cooperation. Behind the talks was the comprehensive strategic partnership promising sustainable development and prosperity between the pair; artificial intelligence (AI) issues in the media sector, as well as keeping pace with new media technology were among the topics of discussion with a view to creating distin...

  The partnership among Azerbaijan, the UAE and Brazil in the sphere of green power sources constitutes a significant step towards actions against global warming. By launching the “troika” project during the 15th Petersburg Climate Dialogue, these countries have taken the lead in initiating a model of partnership for enhancing collaboration and continuity in addressing issues related to the climate. The procedures utilized are innovative to ensure mutual learning and experience sharing is encouraged while also providing a benchmark for the future COP events. Azerbaijan’s joint venture with Brazil in diplomatic relations and commissioning of Garadag Solar Power Station are evidence of our dedication to sustainable development targets on reducing greenhouse gases emission. This trilateral mechanism will be a catalyst for more progress as the globe moves towards greener pasture. Azerbaijan invests in renewable energy infrastructure to show that it values environmental stewardship and ...

  To boost Egyptian economy, great deal has been signed by Egypt and United Arab Emirates to develop a prime stretch of its Mediterranean coast.The deal, which is the largest amount of FDI in the history of the country, enables the two countries to develop Ras Al-Hekma, a 170-square-km area west of Egypt's Mediterranean city of Alexandria, into a new massive urban, business and tourism center "The deal constitutes a breakthrough in Cairo's efforts to lure foreign direct investment and end its worst foreign exchange crisis," Waleed Gaballah, a member of the Egyptian Association for Political Economy, Statistics and Legislation, told Xinhua. Under the deal it is expecting the project to attract eight million tourists and create millions of job opportunities during and after its implementation. The deal is significant because it will encourage other FDI and reduce the pressure on Egypt to obtain dollars.

  Microsoft announced that it would invest $1.5 billion in G42, a company based in Abu Dhabi, to boost the development and spread of AI technologies. This strategic investment will enhance the UAE’s position as a global AI hub and provide further opportunities for partners and customers to innovate and grow. This expanded collaboration will empower organizations of all sizes in new markets to harness the benefits of AI and the cloud while ensuring they are adopting AI that adheres to world-leading standards in safety and security. The partnership includes a first of its kind Intergovernmental Assurance Agreement as both parties commit to world-leading standards in AI safety and security. Microsoft and G42's partnership in UAE signifies a powerful union aimed at encouraging creativity and increasing economic development. G42,Microsoft along with UAE will work together to bring advanced AI and digital infrastructure to countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, providing...

  The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has disclosed a significant commitment towards broadening its global energy portfolio through an investment in the natural gas sector of Mozambique, obtaining a share of the Area 4 license. The Coral-South and Coral-North Floating LNG infrastructures together with the projected Rovuma LNG onshore locations form part of this deal.  With each Coral facility capable of producing 3.5 million metric tons of LNG per year, ADNOC's entry into Mozambique's gas basin marks a pivotal moment in the region's energy landscape. The investment also reinforces ADNOC's influence as a significant contender in the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market and for a company that is dedicated to cleaner energy options. Musabbeh Al Kaabi, who is the Executive Director for Low Carbon Solutions and International Growth at ADNOC, stressed on the role of gas in meeting increasing demand worldwide as well as curbing pollution. The  Rovuma Onshore LNG de...

  President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed  Bruno Le Maire, the French Minister for the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi. During their meeting, the French Minister sent his regards from French President Emmanuel Macron and talked about how he hopes that United Arab Emirates will keep growing while its citizens prosper too. As a response, President Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his best wishes to the French President. The discussions revolved around the strategic ties between UAE and France, spotlighting on bolstering these connections in critical domains like the economy, technology, industry and energy. The significance of these 16th UAE-France strategic dialogue discussions in widening a successful partnership between the two countries were underscored by both Presidents. Also, they emphasized the importance of their collaborative work towards promoting sustainable development in both states which marks...

  The United Arab Emirates and the United States are strategic partners and there will be more joint investments in artificial intelligence between them, the UAE's state minister for AI Omar Sultan Al Olama told Reuters on Tuesday. Thinking about use of SMRs demonstrates UAE’s greater plan of investigating different and maintainable power sources in order to back up its expanding computer-based infrastructure though for now it’s solely concentrated on improving AI capacity while encouraging international alliances aiming at enhancing a strong tech ecosystem fit for future purposes as stated by the minister. The use of SMRs reflects broader strategy in UAE to investigate different and sustainable energy sources to support the growing digital infrastructure. Currently the focus is to extend AI capabilities and build world-wide partnerships that will ensure a resilient technology ecosystem of the future Being future-focused, this strategic approach emphasizes the State’s dedication to...

  AM Best has recently upgraded Dubai Insurance Company (DIN)’s ratings significantly. Therefore, the Financial Strength Rating has been increased to an (Excellent) ‘A’ score from an (Excellent) ‘A-‘ score, while that of the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating is currently rated ‘a’ (Excellent) up from ‘a-’ (Excellent). This shift in ratings from ‘Positive’ to them being ‘Stable’ highlights how much value AM Best places on DIN which has always demonstrated its ability through robust balance sheet strength, strong operating performance as well as having neutral business profile besides effective DIN has sustainably enhanced its business profile and upgraded ratings through strategic diversification of products as well as profitable growth. Through successful implementation of programs like Worker Protection Programme (WPP) and Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) schemes, among others, DIN has diversified its business portfolio substantially. The successful roll-out of these products ha...

  The Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz was met by the President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Saudi Arabia on Friday. A high-level talk took place in Eastern Province at the Azizia Palace; it concentrated on the long-term relationship and important collaboration between these two Gulf countries.This important visit underscores the strong bond that both countries share, and their mutual commitment to collaboration aimed at enhancing regional stability and growth. In a statement, Dr. Anwar Gargash pointed out how important this visit was. He stressed that the regional prosperity, stability, and security depend on continuous communication, cooperation, and integration with Saudi Arabia.Dr. Gargash tweeted: “The meeting between Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prince Mohammed bin Salman reinforces that ongoing communication, cooperation, and integration with Saudi Arabia are essential for the prosperity, stability, and security of our region. Such leaders...

  In a historic act of environmental leadership, UAE Cabinet has decided to launch the ten-year Blue Residency Visa, aimed at recognizing individuals with outstanding commitment levels in conserving environment.This visionary initiative was unveiled during a recent Cabinet meeting presided over by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at Qasar Al Watan in Abu Dhabi.In line with the government agenda to mark Sustainability Year in 2024, UAE offers Blue Residency Pass for individuals who have greatly impacted areas within environmental sector such as environmental domains, including marine life, land-based ecosystems, air quality, sustainability technologies, and the circular economy. Speaking on the significance of this initiative, “In alignment with the national directives declared by the UAE President, to designate 2024 as the year of sustainability in the UAE, we introduced the ‘Blue Residency’, a 10-y...

  The United Arab Emirates has been invited to join the BRICS bloc, a significant milestone that underscores the nation's growing influence on the global stage . The UAE President expressed his appreciation for His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the inclusion, pointing out the UAE’s dedication towards enhancing international cooperation.  Sheikh Mohamed posted on X, “We look forward to a continued commitment of cooperation for the prosperity, dignity and benefit of all nations and people around the world.” The UAE joins Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and Saudi Arabia as the latest additions to BRICS, a bloc that currently comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. BRICS expansion was first on the list for the group’s 3-day summit in Johannesburg, South Africa which ends today. Inclusion like this points towards a fresh beginning in terms of cooperation as well as economy growth not only in the UAE but also in other new entrants. Being part of th...

  The UAE has invested $14 billion in Egypt and will help the country achieve major progress in its development agenda. On Friday during a cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat Office Building (SOB) in Cairo, the Egyptian Prime Minister Mr. Mostafa Madbouly confirmed having received that amount from them, thus indicating his government’s dependence on this financial boost for economic empowerment purposes.  This payment marks the second tranche of a monumental $35 billion investment deal inked in February, aimed at advancing the development of Ras Al-Hekma, a promising new resort city nestled along Egypt's northern coast. Since the first $15 billion was extended in March, Egypt has had a significant increase in overseas investments showing that people are more confident about how it will perform economically in future. Not to mention further financial backing guaranteed by organizations such as World Bank, European Union among others have placed Egypt on a good stand to use ...

  Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Managing Director and Group CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), welcomed United States Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm at ADNOC’s headquarters today.  Talks also focused on the game-changing prospects of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy field, highlighting the innovative way in which ADNOC integrates AI technologies to improve safety, cut down emission levels, as well as enhance operational effectiveness.   During her visit, Secretary Granholm was taken on a tour of ADNOC's Panorama Digital Command Centre. It was here that she got a first-hand observation of the company’s AI-driven initiatives. During the meeting, Dr. Al Jaber reaffirmed the strong, close and longstanding economic, energy and trade relationship between the UAE and the US.  Dr. Al Jaber and Secretary Granholm discussed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) as w...

  The first edition of Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week was launched by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and also the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi organized this important event and it is set for 15 May at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Its theme is ‘Accelerating the Future of Global Healthcare’ and the week will focus on business opportunities within the health sector where ideas are shared through various discussions, workshops & exhibitions among others. During a tour of the exhibition, His Highness was briefed on the latest innovations in healthcare technologies and developments in medical sciences showcased by numerous healthcare institutions and companies. The event is set to attract 5,000 participants, including 1,000 delegates from various countries, 100 exhibitors, and over 250 expert speakers from around the globe. These participants ...

  The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) Council and the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have declared their intention to improve business partnerships and trade among those countries by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) recently as a proof of their commitment. This strategic partnership targets harnessing the substantial promise of bilateral economic linkage between UAE and India by aligning the goals and merging inputs, and sharing awareness across the two nations. The UICC and ICC have reached an MoU that focuses on public promotion and awareness-raising. This Memorandum of Understanding establishes a broad partnership between these two organizations. By promoting the UAE-India CEPA as an opportunity, they can push for higher economic cooperation and investment between the two countries. Through collaborative efforts, they aim to extend the benefits of favorable trade policies to businesses in both nations and foster opportunities for the ec...

  In a historic General Assembly vote, the Palestinian Authority has now been granted new procedural rights and privileges within the international organization. It is important to note that Palestine is yet to become a UN member, though the adoption of this resolution represents a turning point in ongoing efforts by Palestinians to gain recognition and improve their status within different states and bodies. Among the 142 other UN’s member states the UAE supported a landmark proposal whereas nine including US and Israel opposed and twenty five abstained. It was a UAE’s resolution that was presented back in May which does not accord full UN membership to the Palestinians but extends recognition for any prospects that may arise later on. "We want peace, we want freedom," Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour told the General Assembly before the vote. "A yes vote is a vote for Palestinian existence, it is not against any state. ... It is an investment in peace." The...

  UAE president meets Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan in Abu Dhabi visiting UAE for official talks. During the meeting, the two sides discussed enhancing cooperation between the UAE and Türkiye in various fields as part of strategic ties and the comprehensive economic partnership that unites the two countries Sheikh Mohamed and Minister Fidan reviewed ongoing developments in the Middle East, particularly the pressing need for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The urgency of the need for the world to support a peaceful resolution that is fair, all-inclusive and timeless within its confines was once again evident amid the rising crises in Gaza. On Thursday, Fidan met with his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.Also in Abu Dhabi, the Turkish Foreign Minister met on Friday with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.  

  Minister of State, Shakhboot bin Nahyan, recently convened a crucial meeting with Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi. Throughout the discussions, Sheikh Shakhboot and Gatete explored diverse areas of mutual concern, highlighting the UAE's enduring commitment to fostering strategic alliances for the betterment of global economic landscapes.  As the discussions unfolded, both parties reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing economic agendas, particularly focusing on the promotion of infrastructure development across Africa. Through strategic partnerships and concerted efforts, the UAE aims to contribute to the socioeconomic advancement of Africa, aligning with its broader vision of promoting global economic prosperity and fostering inclusive growth. This meeting heralds a promising chapter in the relationship between the UAE and Africa, promising to elev...

  Mubadala Investment Company, in partnership with Global Infrastructure Partners, has unveiled a significant investment in Perdaman's Western Australia Urea project, marking a milestone in the Australian fertiliser industry. With a whopping A$6.4 billion (US$4.2 billion) investment, this project represents the largest urea plant in Australia and one of the largest in the world, poised to produce over two million tons of urea annually. This move aims to address the growing demand for high-quality fertilisers, bolstering Australia's self-sufficiency in agricultural production and enhancing food security for up to 90 million people. The plant is set to incorporate state-of-the-art technology to enhance energy efficiency and minimize emissions, playing a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability. Through the utilization of clean energy sources such as solar power and green hydrogen, the project endeavors to mitigate industrial emissions and decrease the carbon footpri...

  During his speech at the Dubai Fintech Summit, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy for the UAE, laid out ambitious economic growth objectives. Al Marri set a bold target of achieving a robust 7% annual increase in the nation's GDP. He emphasized the necessity of diversifying beyond traditional sectors like real estate and tourism, highlighting the considerable potential in non-oil industries such as sustainable tourism, health tech, and AI. This strategic focus positions the UAE as a pioneering center for global innovation. Despite facing recent challenges such as unprecedented floods, the UAE's economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Business activities persevered even during adverse weather conditions, thanks to the country's robust infrastructure, particularly its high-speed WiFi connectivity. Minister Al Marri credited this resilience to the UAE's forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. As the UAE looks ahead, it remains com...

  In recent times, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has risen to prominence as a frontrunner in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), marking its journey towards becoming the global hub for AI innovation. Under the guidance of forward-thinking leaders and fueled by strategic investments, the UAE's aspirations in AI have captured the interest of tech giants and experts worldwide. Through proactive strategies and a dedication to fostering innovation, the UAE has laid the groundwork for groundbreaking progress in AI technology. One of the defining features of the UAE's AI journey is its early recognition of the technology's potential and the subsequent strategic initiatives undertaken to leverage it. From the appointment of the world's first AI minister in 2017 to the establishment of cutting-edge research institutes like the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the UAE has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering AI innovation. Moreover, the UAE's A...

  The UAE and Uzbekistan have taken a significant step towards bolstering their economic ties with the signing of an investment memorandum focused on digital infrastructure development. The agreement, inked between the Ministry of Investment of the UAE and the Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, aims to explore joint investment opportunities in data centre and artificial intelligence projects in Uzbekistan. This collaboration comes at a pivotal time as Uzbekistan's digital market experiences steady growth, propelled by the adoption of the Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 strategy. Under the memorandum, both nations will assess opportunities for establishing new data centres in Uzbekistan to offer cloud and AI solutions to private and government entities. Additionally, they aim to attract major cloud service providers, explore super-computer projects, and develop language models specific to Uzbekistan. This partnership seeks to create a local talent ecosystem for AI and computi...

  In the volatile landscape of the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States have forged a formidable alliance, standing as a united front line of defense. Equipped with advanced defense systems supplied by the US, such as the cutting-edge F-16 Block 60 aircraft, dubbed the "Desert Falcon," the UAE Air Force plays a crucial role in safeguarding shared strategic interests. These capabilities have been instrumental in countering violent extremism and ensuring the security of vital shipping routes, demonstrating the tangible impact of bilateral cooperation on regional stability. In a significant milestone, the US sale of F-35 Lightning II aircraft and other advanced defense systems to the UAE in December 2020 underscores the commitment to bolstering collective security in the Middle East. This transaction, passing Congressional review, reflects a mutual objective outlined in the US National Defense Strategy—to empower allies like the UAE to assume greater...

  The passing of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan marks the end of an era for the United Arab Emirates. Throughout his illustrious career, Sheikh Tahnoun held various prestigious positions, including Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ADNOC. His contributions to the development of the UAE, particularly in the Al Ain region, were profound and enduring. Sheikh Tahnoun's profound bond with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan deeply influenced his path of service and dedication. Together, they were instrumental in laying the foundation for the UAE, tirelessly working towards the vision of unity. Sheikh Tahnoun's exemplary leadership and steadfast dedication to the advancement of his country endeared him to his fellow Emiratis, earning him widespread respect and admiration. Beyond his official duties, Sheikh Tahnoun was known for his genuine connection with the people of Al Ain. His presence in the community and ...

Indian External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, and Emirati Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, recently held constructive discussions aimed at strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE. During the meeting, both ministers exchanged valuable insights on regional and global affairs, highlighting the importance of their diverse bilateral relations. Additionally, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra engaged in productive talks with Minister Reem Ebrahim Al Hashimy, reaffirming the commitment to deepen the strategic partnership through collaborative efforts and mutual understanding. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE in March 2022 has played a pivotal role in enhancing trade relations. This landmark agreement has facilitated greater market access for UAE exports to India by reducing tariffs on over 80% of products and removing unnecessary technical barriers. As a result, bilat...