Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived in the UAE for a three-day working visit to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and strengthen bilateral ties. His itinerary includes key meetings with UAE leaders, participation in the ADSW, and the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This visit reinforces Malaysia’s expanding trade relations with the UAE, a key partner in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has commenced a three-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), primarily aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and participating in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). His flight touched down at Abu Dhabi International Airport at 9 PM local time on Sunday. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by UAE Minister of State Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, along with Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and the Ambassador to the UAE, Tengku Datuk Sirajuzzaman Tengku Mohamed Ariffin.
This visit, held at the invitation of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, is significant as it marks Anwar’s second trip to the UAE since assuming office, following his inaugural visit in October 2023. During his stay, the Prime Minister is set to attend key events, including the ADSW opening ceremony and the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony, where he will engage with global leaders from diverse regions. Notably, he will participate in a plenary session focusing on ASEAN’s interconnected future in the context of energy, trade, and prosperity.
Moreover, Anwar is scheduled to meet with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, as well as his Emirati counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in Dubai to discuss fostering collaboration in various strategic sectors. The signing of the Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is also on the agenda, further fortifying trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
In the period from January to November 2024, Malaysia’s trade with the UAE amounted to RM39.53 billion (approximately USD 8.61 billion), affirming the UAE’s position as Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner in the Middle East. With total trade valued at RM39.63 billion (approximately USD 8.67 billion) in 2023, Malaysia stands as the fourth largest trading partner of the UAE among ASEAN countries and ranks 32nd globally.
The UAE is recognized for its robust economic landscape and significant bilateral partnerships, particularly with Malaysia, which has been steadily enhancing its trade relations within the region. The ADSW serves as a platform for global leaders to collaborate on sustainable development initiatives, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is pivotal for both nations, aiming to stimulate economic growth and investment flows, further solidifying Malaysia’s essential role in the UAE’s strategic trade network. Given Malaysia’s standing as the second-largest trading partner of the UAE in the Middle East, the outcomes of this visit are anticipated to bolster cooperation across various sectors markedly.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to the UAE provides a vital opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations through meaningful participation in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and critical discussions on economic cooperation. The signing of the CEPA and active dialogue with UAE leadership highlight Malaysia’s strategic approach to enhancing its role within the wider ASEAN and Middle Eastern trading frameworks, promising mutual benefits in trade and sustainable progress.
Original Source: thesun.my
