Hili Forum 2025 opens in Abu Dhabi on trade tech and governance

Photo:WAM

The second edition of the Hili Forum officially began in Abu Dhabi today, carrying the theme “Global Reset: Trade, Tech, and Governance.” The forum is being held for two days and aims to position the UAE as a leading hub for dialogue on the most urgent global challenges.

This year’s gathering has attracted over 1,000 participants and 70 speakers from more than 30 countries. Leaders, policymakers, scholars, and experts have come together to talk about the fast-changing world order and how it is being shaped by politics, economics, and technology.

Day One: Geopolitics and Geoeconomics

The first day focused on two major topics—geopolitics and geoeconomics.

* Geopolitics sessions discussed how competition between major powers is rising, the growing influence of middle powers, and how new partnerships can be built as the balance of global power shifts.

* Geoeconomics sessions highlighted the challenges caused by fragmented economies and different trade policies. Experts spoke about how innovation, adaptation, and repositioning can help economies grow stronger despite these global divisions.

UAE’s Global Vision

In his keynote speech, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, explained the UAE’s strong legacy in commerce and trade. He said the UAE has always connected East and West, North and South, making it a vital link in global trade. Today, the country is seen as one of the most dynamic and influential economies, promoting inclusive and cooperative economic diplomacy.

Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, added that hosting such dialogues enhances the UAE’s soft power. According to her, the Hili Forum allows the exchange of knowledge and builds cooperation between regions and sectors.

Dr. Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, stressed that dialogue is key to turning global challenges into opportunities for cooperation and growth. He explained that the forum’s name “Hili” reflects the UAE’s deep cultural and trade history, showing the country’s role as a crossroads of civilizations.

Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, noted that the UAE is not only a convener of global dialogue but also a driving force for real action. He said the country is shaping partnerships that can handle uncertainty, support sustainable development, and bring long-term prosperity.

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Role of Middle Powers and Diplomacy

One of the important sessions, “The Global Gulf: Middle Powers and Mediation Diplomacy,” was led by Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of AGDA. Discussions pointed out how middle powers like the UAE are well-placed to act as mediators in global conflicts, using diplomacy to promote peace and stability.

Distinguished Speakers

The Hili Forum welcomed high-profile figures, including:

* Dr. Bisher Al Khasawneh, Member of the Senate and former Prime Minister of Jordan

* Prof. Mohamed Bin Huwaidin, Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, UAE University

* Nasser Judeh, former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Jordan

* Ambassador Douglas Silliman, Former US Ambassador to Iraq and President of the Arab Gulf States Institute

* Dr. Ebtesam Al Ketbi, President and Founder of the Emirates Policy Center

* Ambassador Francesco Talò, Italian Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

* Ambassador Ridwaan Jadwat, Australian Ambassador to the UAE

Alongside them, faculty members, researchers, and experts from different sectors also shared their insights.

Looking Ahead – Geotech on Day Two

Tomorrow, the forum will continue at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, where discussions will expand to the third major theme: geotech. This area will explore how advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation are shaping the future.

Together, the three pillars—geopolitics, geoeconomics, and geotech—are forming the foundation for in-depth dialogue on the future of the global order.

The UAE, by hosting the Hili Forum, is reinforcing its role as a bridge between regions, a promoter of peace, and a key driver of global cooperation.