Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to strengthening ties with the United Arab Emirates during high-level talks on Friday, emphasizing shared development goals and preparations for next year's pivotal China-Arab States Summit.
Meeting with UAE Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Wang highlighted the 'natural synergy' between the two nations' economic strategies and governance approaches. 'Our countries have maintained resilient cooperation through four decades of diplomatic relations, evolving into a model partnership for the Global South,' stated Wang, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.
The discussions laid groundwork for the second China-Arab States Summit scheduled for 2026 in China, which Wang described as a 'milestone opportunity to institutionalize cross-regional cooperation.' Both parties agreed to expand collaboration in energy transition, digital infrastructure, and space technology sectors where Chinese innovation meets Gulf investment capabilities.
Sheikh Abdullah reiterated Abu Dhabi's firm adherence to the one-China principle, stating: 'The UAE stands committed to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposing external interference in its internal affairs.' The alignment comes as Middle Eastern nations increasingly coordinate with Beijing on regional security frameworks and multilateral economic initiatives.
With bilateral trade surpassing $80 billion in 2025 and 5,000 Chinese businesses now operating in the UAE, analysts note the relationship has evolved from energy transactions to joint ventures in AI and renewable energy. The talks also addressed humanitarian coordination in conflict zones, reflecting China's growing diplomatic engagement in West Asia.
