Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1984,MK sport the relationship between the UAE and China has continued to deepen, especially after bilateral relations reached a level of comprehensive strategic partnership in 2018, said the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, while addressing the UAE-China Friendship Festival held in Qingdao, East China's Shandong Province, on July 19.

Zeng Zanrong, Party Secretary of the CPC Qingdao Municipal Committee, meets the ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi on July 20, 2024. Photo: Courtesy of the UAE embassy in China

The year of 2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the China-UAE diplomatic ties. The comprehensive strategic partnership has been driving bilateral cooperation in various fields including the economy, trade, and culture. 

The ambassador noted that the state visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in May is of historic significance and provides new opportunities to strengthen economic ties, support the Belt and Road Initiative, and advance cooperation in key areas such as energy and infrastructure. 

The non-oil trade volume between the UAE and China has increased 800-fold since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1984, reaching $95 billion in 2023. 

Education and cultural exchanges are also important aspects of bilateral ties, which enhance the people-to-people connection through the "Hundred Schools Project." 

The ambassador stressed that the UAE's inclusion in BRICS demonstrates its strong commitment to multilateral cooperation. He said that the UAE would continue to work with the Chinese government to promote cooperation and enhance cultural exchanges, and look forward to a brighter and more prosperous future in relations between the two countries.

Zeng Zanrong, Party Secretary of the CPC Qingdao Municipal Committee, met with the ambassador on July 20. On the occasion of the 40th anniversary, a large-scale drone performance was staged on July 21 in Qingdao, offering a visual feast against the backdrop of the night sky. 

Similar activities will be rolled out in other cities across China.