The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) has officially unveiled the UAE Economic Diplomacy Report for 2024–2025 during a prominent event held at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
This event provided an opportunity for lively discussions regarding the UAE’s growing role in fostering international collaboration and enhancing relationships among countries. It highlighted the nation’s leading position in the realm of economic diplomacy.
The report is designed to enhance understanding of economic diplomacy as a core element of foreign policy, demonstrating how the UAE utilizes trade, assistance, and investments to forge global partnerships and encourage sustainable economic growth.
Additionally, it examines the UAE’s diplomatic and regulatory milestones in 2024, illustrating significant events that showcase the country’s increasing economic clout. Moreover, the report contains a section dedicated to global economic issues, making it pertinent for an international audience.
Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, addresses the attendees.
Key topics discussed by Dr. Ahmed Rashad, Assistant Professor at AGDA, included the global economic outlook, emerging trends in economic diplomacy, and the UAE’s participation in BRICS and the New Development Bank.
The importance of the WTO’s Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration was also highlighted, reaffirming the UAE’s dedication to advancing international trade and shaping global economic policies.
The event gathered distinguished guests, including Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA; Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of AGDA; Dr. Ahmad Rashad, Assistant Professor at AGDA; along with faculty, students, media representatives, and other notable figures from the diplomatic and academic sectors.
UAE’s Commitment to International Collaboration: Zeyoudi
In remarks regarding the report’s launch, Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, remarked, “The UAE stands as an open, outward-looking nation whose impressive growth over the past fifty years has been sustained through constructive engagement with the global community. Our economic aspirations hinge on seamless trade with key markets, impactful investments focused on knowledge sharing, strategic foreign direct investment in progressive sectors, and the recruitment and retention of global talent.
Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh
“The UAE now functions as a crucial bridge between East and West, facilitating the movement of various forms of capital and promoting the integration of emerging economies into global supply chains. The launch of the UAE Economic Diplomacy Report epitomizes our country’s increasing influence on the world stage and serves as a timely reminder of the benefits stemming from cross-border collaboration.”
Reflecting on the UAE’s long-term vision, Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh noted, “Our role in shaping a sturdy global economy is firmly rooted in a proactive and forward-thinking stance in international relations. Through our active engagement in evolving global economic structures, we continue to position the UAE as a leader in fostering balanced and inclusive partnerships. Modern diplomacy goes beyond merely finalizing trade agreements; it involves nurturing strategic alliances that encourage innovation, enhance resilience, and ensure sustained prosperity.”
Empowering Nations through Economic Diplomacy: Mladenov
Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, highlighted the broader mission of economic diplomacy, stating, “Economic diplomacy empowers nations to craft global relationships through innovation, collaboration, and strategic foresight. The UAE’s approach demonstrates a commitment to fostering inclusive growth and impactful partnerships that fortify its status as a trusted and forward-thinking global entity.”
Providing an institutional viewpoint, Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of AGDA, remarked, “This report not only reflects the UAE’s strategic economic trajectory but also serves as an educational resource that equips the next generation of diplomats and policymakers with a nuanced understanding of global economic interactions, changes, and developments. At AGDA, we view this as crucial for preparing leaders who can think on a global scale while acting purposefully.”
From an academic angle, Dr. Ahmad Rashad, Assistant Professor at AGDA, commented:
“Economic components significantly influence international relations, making it imperative for diplomats to grasp these dynamics. This report contributes to building the necessary economic literacy for effective diplomacy, enabling diplomats to anticipate global changes and establish strategic, long-lasting partnerships that promote the UAE’s interests and elevate its global standing.”
He noted that the report also acts as a crucial reference for researchers in economic diplomacy and international economic relations.
The event underscored AGDA’s role as a platform for policy discussions and its commitment to preparing diplomats and decision-makers to tackle the emerging challenges and opportunities within international affairs. The report and discussions reflect the UAE’s broader strategic goals, including sustainable development, economic diversification, and enhanced global influence through cooperation, innovation, and forward-thinking initiatives.