Johannesburg: The UAE is an important strategic partner for South Africa, according to Caren Sutherns, President of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who said Dubai stands out as a world-leading model for sustainable economic growth and business competitiveness.

According to Emirates News Agency, speaking on the sidelines of a trade mission organised by Dubai Chambers to Johannesburg, Sutherns highlighted that Dubai has emerged as one of the world's foremost economic and commercial centres. She emphasized that the UAE's development model is highly regarded by South Africa's business and economic communities.

She expressed Johannesburg's keen interest in strengthening cooperation with Dubai to benefit from its advanced expertise in urban planning, city development, infrastructure, water resource management, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence. Sutherns stressed the significant opportunities to build mutually beneficial partnerships.

Sutherns praised Dubai Chambers' initiative in organising the trade mission to South Africa. She noted that Johannesburg welcomes UAE investors and offers promising opportunities across various sectors, including construction, real estate development, infrastructure, financial services, technology, and the digital economy. She added that Johannesburg serves as a major economic centre and an important gateway to African markets.

Additionally, she expressed the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry's interest in strengthening cooperation with UAE economic institutions, particularly Dubai Chambers, to further enhance trade and investment relations and create new opportunities for companies and entrepreneurs in both countries.

Addressing the UAE business community, Sutherns highlighted South Africa's promising investment environment and underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with the UAE. She noted that Dubai's development achievements are highly regarded by the business community in Johannesburg.