UAE, China continue to strengthen relations

Wam/Beijing

9 November 7, 2015

"The UAE and China share a deep-rooted relationship based on a shared vision, mutual respect, and common economic and political interests."

UAE Minister of State Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Sultan Al Jaber met with high-ranking officials from the People's Republic of China in Beijing for bilateral discussions regarding opportunities to strengthen economic and trade ties between the UAE and China.

The bilateral discussions were aimed at reinforcing the growing strategic partnership established between the two countries, and at exploring further collaboration and investment opportunities across sectors of mutual interest, including energy, infrastructure and technology.

Dr Al Jaber met with Zhang Yesui, vice-minister of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as Ning Jizhe, vice-chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, which holds administrative and planning control over the Chinese economy and formulates policies for economic and social development. As part of these ongoing efforts, the UAE signed the articles of agreement establishing the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, or AIIB, in June, and became a founding member of the international financial institution.

"The UAE and China share a deep-rooted relationship based on a shared vision, mutual respect, and common economic and political interests," said Dr Al Jaber. "We've seen this relationship develop even further this year, with the UAE becoming a founding member of the AIIB. We look forward to cultivating our relationship with China further."

During the visit, Dr Al Jaber also met with the Wang Yilin, chairman of China National Petroleum Corporation, and Zhang Xuguang, president of the China Development Bank.

Trade between the UAE and China increased by 16 per cent annually for the past six years and reached Dh201.28 billion ($54.8 billion) in 2014. - Wam