Sharjah Diplomatic Day Welcomes 120 Global Officials, Leaders

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

Sharjah, UAE – The International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) 2024, hosted at Expo Centre Sharjah, commenced with a significant event organized by the Department of Government Relations (DGR). The annual Sharjah Diplomatic Day brought together over 120 distinguished guests, including international diplomats, economic and trade advisors, and senior officials from the emirate, underscoring the event’s role in fostering international cooperation and showcasing Sharjah’s global influence.

On the opening day of IGCF 2024, Sharjah Diplomatic Day featured two high-profile panel discussions: “Diplomacy: The Language of Global Development” and “The Impact of Government Communication on Economic Resilience in Sharjah's Government.” The discussions were led by Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, along with prominent ambassadors, parliamentarians, and leaders from Sharjah’s governmental bodies.

Diplomacy: The Language of Global Development

The first panel, “Diplomacy: The Language of Global Development,” highlighted the strategic relationship between the UAE and China. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi and H.E. Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the UAE, explored the deepening cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

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Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi emphasized Sharjah's role in strengthening these ties, stating, “The UAE is a key partner in security and energy, and we continue to enhance our financial and logistics infrastructure. Sharjah, with its strategic location and extensive port facilities, is an ideal base for Chinese companies looking to establish themselves in the region.”

H.E. Zhang Yiming reflected on the 40-year diplomatic relationship, noting, “This milestone highlights the mutual respect and win-win cooperation between China and the UAE. Our bilateral trade reached USD 95 billion last year, with a target of USD 200 billion by 2030. The UAE’s inclusive policies have created a diverse environment for various nationalities, including Chinese, to live, work, and study here.”

Economic Resilience in Sharjah's Government

The second panel, “The Impact of Government Communication on Economic Resilience in Sharjah's Government,” delved into strategies for economic diversification and the role of diplomacy in advancing technological and economic sectors. The discussion featured Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi alongside other key figures including H.E. Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab, H.E. Omar Al Mulla, and H.E. Mohammed Al Musharrkh.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi articulated Sharjah’s ambitions, stating, “Sharjah’s economy is comparable to that of a mid-sized country. Our goal is to promote economic opportunities and build cultural bridges with various nations while encouraging students from around the world to study in Sharjah.”

H.E. Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab highlighted the UAE’s role in global economic blocs and its pursuit of economic power through strategic agreements. She noted, “Sharjah and the UAE are focusing on a knowledge-based economy, striving for sustainability through revenue diversification.”

H.E. Mohammed Al Musharrkh remarked on Sharjah’s success in attracting foreign direct investment, saying, “In 2023, Sharjah ranked fifth globally in FDI project growth. We are actively engaging with international investors and participating in global trade missions to communicate Sharjah’s economic messages.”

H.E. Omar Al Mulla discussed Sharjah Asset Management’s efforts in economic diversification, emphasizing, “Sharjah Asset Management is pivotal in expanding into various industries and developing world-class facilities for sustainable investments. Our advanced logistical services and supportive legislation strengthen Sharjah’s competitive position as a regional economic hub.”

Sharjah Diplomatic Day remains a key annual event for DGR, dedicated to enhancing diplomatic relations between the UAE’s diplomatic community and Sharjah’s government leaders.