UAE + China to boost defense, energy cooperation: The UAE and China are set to bolster their cooperation in defense and security, focusing on enhancing the capabilities of their military personnel and security institutions, according to a joint statement. The two countries also plan to cooperate on crude oil reserves and encourage Emirati and Chinese companies to coordinate in the fields of renewable energy, oil, natural gas, petrochemicals, oil storage, hydrogen, and ammonia.

The two countries also agreed to explore joint nuclear energy projects, including the construction of nuclear power stations and advancement of nuclear research and development.

Enec signs nuclear energy MoU with China: The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) and the Chinese National Nuclear Energy Corporation signed an MoU to cooperate on the “peaceful uses” of nuclear energy, building on previous initiatives between the two institutions, including a 2023 MoU signed during COP28. The collaboration should see developments in nuclear energy technology, promising research on fourth-generation reactors, hydrogen production technology, and the use of nuclear energy in water desalination.

ALSO- Etihad Airways and Beijing Daxing International Airport signed an agreement to increase cargo trips between the UAE and China as well as cooperate on technology initiatives to boost operational efficiency, Wam reported separately.

The two sides also agreed to set up a committee to boost investments between the countries, Wam said.

ICYMI- UAE and China inked several MoUs during President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s two-day visit to Beijing to attend the Ministerial Meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum last week. The agreements spanned infrastructure and cooperation on the belt and road initiative, media, nuclear energy, maritime certifications, science and technology, intellectual property, tourism, investment, green development, cultural exchange, health, education, language education, and statistical cooperation.

Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with his Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan to discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations and comprehensive partnerships in economic, trade, investment, tourism, and education sectors, Wam reports. They also addressed regional and international issues, including the ongoing regional tensions and humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

OTHER DIPLOMACY NEWS-

  • Qatari Emir visits the UAE to discuss regional developments: Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, to review a number of regional and international issues, including the importance of ramping up efforts toward a ceasefire in Gaza. (Wam)
  • Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan chaired the inaugural BRICS Steering Committee meeting, held virtually. Al Nahyan reviewed the UAE’s role within the bloc and proposed strategies to bolster its participation, aiming to enhance coordination among all member states. (Wam)
  • The Foreign Minister praised US President Joe Biden’s proposals to end the War in Gaza during a call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. (Wam)
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