UAE Strengthens Ties with the Caribbean at 10th ACS Summit in Colombia
ABU DHABI, WAM — In a significant diplomatic engagement, Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State for the United Arab Emirates, represented President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the 10th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), held in Montería, Colombia. This gathering, taking place under the evocative theme “United for Life: Toward a More Sustainable Greater Caribbean,” attracted leaders from across the Caribbean region, marking a pivotal moment in collaborative efforts aimed at fostering sustainable development amidst pressing global challenges.
The summit was particularly notable as it coincided with the 30th anniversary of the ACS’s establishment, an organization committed to promoting cooperation among member states in various sectors including tourism, trade, and sustainable development. The anniversary emphasized not only the organization’s rich history but also the urgent need for continued partnership and innovation in addressing environmental concerns, economic disparities, and cultural exchanges.
During the summit, Al Kaabi engaged in a fruitful dialogue with Ambassador Noemí Espinoza Madrid, the eighth Secretary General of the ACS. Their discussions underscored the potential to enhance cooperation between the UAE and the ACS on numerous fronts. Central to their conversation were initiatives focused on advancing sustainable tourism, an area of growing importance as tourism plays a crucial role in the economies of both the Caribbean and the UAE.
Moreover, in light of the escalating impacts of climate change, Al Kaabi and Espinoza Madrid explored collaborative strategies to mitigate associated risks. Climate change remains an existential threat to island nations in the Caribbean, where rising sea levels and increased frequency of severe weather events challenge sustainable living and economic stability. Therefore, the agreement to work collectively on solutions is significant. The partnerships discussed may pave the way for robust climate adaptation projects and share best practices between the regions.
Digital transformation was another critical topic of discussion. In an era marked by swift technological advancements, the need for both the UAE and Caribbean nations to embrace digital solutions has become paramount. The goal is to harness technology not only to stimulate economic growth but also to foster cross-cultural exchanges and improve the lives of citizens in both regions.
Additionally, the meeting emphasized the importance of enhancing people-to-people ties, which are essential for nurturing mutual understanding and respect between the UAE and the Caribbean nations. Strengthening these connections can create a foundation for deeper collaboration in education, tourism, and cultural preservation, ultimately benefiting the broader communities involved.
Al Kaabi’s participation in the summit highlights the UAE’s commitment to global partnerships aimed at sustainable development. The nation’s growing engagement with the Caribbean underscores a strategic vision to expand its influence and build networks of cooperation that transcend geographical and cultural barriers. This engagement reflects a broader UAE foreign policy strategy that prioritizes sustainability, economic diversification, and international solidarity.
The UAE, known for its rapid development and innovative approach to challenges, has much to offer to the Caribbean in terms of knowledge transfer and investment opportunities. Conversely, the Caribbean region presents unique tourism possibilities that align with the UAE’s ambitions to diversify its tourism portfolio, particularly in light of changing travel trends post-pandemic.
As the summit concluded, participants expressed optimism about the future of collaboration in pursuing shared objectives. Through sustained dialogue and coordinated action, both the UAE and the Caribbean nations can address the pressing issues they face while building a legacy of solidarity, resilience, and sustainable growth.
Al Kaabi was accompanied by Mohammed Abdullah Al Shamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Colombia, reflecting a solidified diplomatic presence in Latin America, which may lead to further fruitful engagements in the region.
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