Shenzhen:H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, delivered a speech at the Ras Al Khaimah-China Business Summit in Shenzhen. The event gathered nearly 300 government officials, investors, and business leaders to enhance economic partnerships and explore investment opportunities between Ras Al Khaimah and China.
According to Emirates News Agency, attendees included Hussain Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China; Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Investment; Mariam Alshamsi, UAE Consul General in Guangzhou; Eng. Yousif Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity; and Daniel Sellers, FDI Expert for the Asia Pacific Region at the UAE Ministry of Investment.
The summit, under the theme 'Together Towards Shared Value', aimed to connect Chinese businesses with Ras Al Khaimah's economic and development sectors. Discussions centered on how enhanced cooperation could lead to investments, commercial partnerships, and projects on the ground. H.H. Sheikh Saud highlighted the presence of thousands of Chinese companies in the UAE, with over 400 operating in Ras Al Khaimah, and elaborated on the Emirate's investment prospects in advanced manufacturing, AI, digital technologies, renewable energy, and logistics.
Sheikh Saud emphasized the importance of stability, trust, and lasting partnerships for sustainable economic growth. He stated that the progress of Ras Al Khaimah is measured by the legacy it leaves for future generations, focusing on building a resilient and diversified economy integrated into global supply chains.
He also highlighted Ras Al Khaimah's strategic location as the UAE's Northern Gateway, which serves as a link for Chinese businesses to expanding markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, complementing China's Belt and Road Initiative.
The event featured various sessions, including a fireside chat on economic ties between China and Ras Al Khaimah, a presentation by the UAE Ministry of Investment, and panel discussions on investment, finance, and trade. These sessions examined the role of technology, culture, and connectivity in shaping smart destinations and creating business opportunities.
Networking opportunities were also provided to help participants foster relations and explore potential business partnerships. Prior to the summit, H.H. Sheikh Saud met with Li Yun, Deputy Secretary of Shenzhen Municipal Committee and Mayor of Shenzhen, to discuss strengthening relations between Ras Al Khaimah and Shenzhen and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and economic development.
Shenzhen, located in Guangdong Province, is part of China's largest provincial economy, with a population exceeding 128.6 million and a projected GDP of US$2 trillion by 2025. The province is a major manufacturing hub with key sectors including electronics, automotive, textiles, pharmaceuticals, high-tech industries, finance, and real estate.