Category: UAE News

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G20 Brazil: Sheikh Khaled meets Lula 

H.H. Sheikh Khaled and the President Lula reviewed the development of bilateral relations between the UAE and Brazil across various fields, particularly in economy, investment, renewable energy, and sustainability…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has held a session of official talks with Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil. 

During the meeting, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil discussed ways to strengthen friendship and cooperation between the UAE and Brazil and explored opportunities to further develop the two countries’ relations to serve the common interests of both nations. 

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the President of Brazil reviewed the development of bilateral relations between the UAE and Brazil across various fields, particularly in economy, investment, renewable energy, and sustainability, highlighting the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, reflecting the significant growth and progress achieved, supported by the strength of bilateral ties and the shared commitment to further enhancing them. 

The meeting also explored programmes and initiatives aimed at expanding the scope of cooperation to advance sustainable development in both nations. 

At the outset of the meeting, His Highness conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and extended his wishes for continued progress and prosperity to the Brazilian people. 

The President of Brazil also conveyed his greetings to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and expressed his wishes for ongoing prosperity and success for the UAE and its people. 

Sheikh Khaled reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Brazil across all levels, aiming to support joint sustainable development and strengthen the close ties between the two countries for the benefit and prosperity of their people. 

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the President of Brazil witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint mechanism aimed at promoting UAE investments in strategic sectors in Brazil. 

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Brazil Ministry of Foreign Affairs also signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in Africa.  

The meeting also discussed the agreement between the Abu Dhabi Customs and the Tax Authority of Brazil to strengthen customs cooperation across various areas, commending the launch of the digital trade corridor to streamline trade procedures and enhance collaboration. 

The President of Brazil also praised the UAE’s initiative to plant 10,000 palm trees in the Brazilian state of Bahia as part of a programme aimed at transferring knowledge to the Brazilian side in this sector, in cooperation with Al Foah Company. 

UAE, Brazil align on G20 Agenda 

Since officially assuming the G20 presidency on 1st December 2023, Brazil has been focusing on strengthening cooperation among member states to find effective solutions to key global challenges. 

According to Brazil’s vision, the future direction of the G20 aims to address pressing issues through dynamic initiatives, commitment to sustainable practices and inclusive dialogue, paving the way for shared achievements among G20 countries. 

Through its leadership of the G20, Brazil is working to develop innovative strategies and fruitful co-operation with the G20 countries to build a future characterised by shared achievements and global solidarity. 

The UAE’s participation as a guest at the G20 Summit being held on 18-19 November in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet”, is part of an exchange of shared visions with Brazil. 

This supports joint action to achieve future goals, especially as relations between the two friendly countries are witnessing steady development with their agreement in 2019 to elevate their bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership. 

The UAE has declared its support for the priorities of the Brazilian G20 presidency, which include developing global governance, combating poverty and hunger, and addressing climate and energy challenges. 

Throughout this year, the UAE has been keen to participate in all G20-related ministerial meetings held in Brazil. These included the Foreign Ministers Meeting, the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, the Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, the Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting, the Sherpa Meeting, and the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting for 2024. 

The meeting of agriculture ministers, the meeting of energy ministers, the meeting of health ministers to discuss global health challenges and identify strategic priorities, the meetings of education ministers, and other meetings that came within the agenda of the group’s work. 

In terms of bilateral relations, the UAE is one of Brazil’s largest economic partners in the Middle East, with trade between the two countries reaching AED13.28 billion in the first eight months of this year. 

Brazil is currently the UAE’s largest trading partner in Latin America, and the second largest in the Americas after the United States. 

UAE investments are estimated at $5bn with major Emirati companies such as Mubadala, DP World, Emirates Airlines, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Yahsat and others. 

The two countries are working to support joint initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable development. In this regard, the UAE government and the government of the Federative Republic of Brazil launched this year a strategic partnership in the areas of government modernisation, focusing on exchanging expertise, experiences and best practices in three areas of cooperation, including capacity building of government cadres, knowledge exchange in the field of government competitiveness, and sharing experiences in the economic fields. 

Brazil announced this year that it has joined the UAE Declaration on a Global Climate Finance Framework, launched by a group of world leaders at COP28, which saw the announcement of the historic UAE Consensus. It has raised and catalysed more than $85 billion in funding and launched 11 pledges and declarations. 

ALSO READ: UAE hails COP29 progress on Loss and Damage Fund 

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Al Ain Book Festival Kicks Off 

Held under the theme “All Eyes on Al Ain”, the festival is scheduled to run until 23rd November….reports Asian Lite News

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the Al Ain Book Festival 2024 kicked off its activities at Al Ain Square – Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium. 

Held under the theme “All Eyes on Al Ain”, the festival is scheduled to run until 23rd November. 

This year’s festival presents more than 200 events and activities, bringing together a distinguished group of pioneers in culture, art, and poetry from various creative fields. 

The event aims to promote a culture of reading and encourage members of the community, especially youth and young adults, to engage with Emirati cultural heritage and appreciate its rich legacy. 

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, said, “The patronage of the Al Ain Book Festival by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, underscores the success of the festival and consolidates its position as a prominent cultural destination that promotes knowledge, embraces culture, contributes to the publication of books, and celebrates icons of culture, science, knowledge, and arts.” 

“With its distinguished vision,” he continued, “the festival has supported the Centre’s strategic efforts to promote the presence of the Arabic language as a key component of cultural identity, in line with the Emirate of Abu Dhabi’s vision to create a generation of avid readers with strong ties to their language and culture and to the Emirati heritage and authentic values.” 

“The festival promotes Al Ain’s position as a cultural and intellectual hub, highlighting its deep connections to culture, books, and education, while being home to some of the UAE’s oldest and most prominent universities,” he added. 

“Furthermore, the event supports Al Ain’s presence as the Capital for Gulf Tourism 2025 by promoting its leading cultural and heritage sites that were selected to host the Al Ain Book Festival’s cultural and recreational activities, inspired by the UAE’s rich heritage.” 

The exhibition allows visitors to explore notable publications across all cultural fields, with 200 exhibitors showcasing 100,000 scientific and intellectual titles. The ALC invites the public to visit the festival, which has become a unique movement in harmony with Abu Dhabi’s cultural and intellectual achievements. 

Visitors can enjoy events at six main venues: Al Ain Square – Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Jahili Fort, and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), in addition to the ‘Khazanat Al Kutub’ activities in three malls across Al Ain. This, in turn, reflects the Centre’s vision and strategic objectives to create a knowledge-based society and foster a community-wide cultural movement. 

The ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry’ programme, one of the festival’s key initiatives, highlights the UAE’s pioneering experience in preserving folk poetic heritage. It features three segments: ‘The Missing Yet Present’, which commemorates notable poets who enriched the poetry scene and passed away in 2024; ‘Beginnings and Development’, which discusses the role of the media, government initiatives, and private efforts in documenting and preserving poetry; and ‘Poets Majlis’, which recreates the atmosphere of poetry gatherings that were broadcast on television stations in the 1980s. 

In its current edition, the festival celebrates through “Poetry Nights” the legacy of the late Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and his notable support for literature and poetry and his keenness to promote culture among generations. 

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Lulu Retail starts trading on ADX 

HE Mohamed bin Hassan Al Suwaidi, Cabinet Member and Minister of Investment, and Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group, rang the bell to mark the official trading…reports Asian Lite News

Lulu Retail Holdings PLC, the largest and fastest growing pan-GCC full-line retailer, successfully commenced trading on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) today following its Initial Public Offering (IPO) and trading under the ticker “LULU”. 

Lulu’s IPO raised gross proceeds of AED 6.32 billion (c. $1.72 billion) making it the largest offering in the UAE in 2024 to date. The offering saw aggregate demand of over AED 135 billion (c. $37 billion) from local, regional, and international investors, a record for a non-Government UAE IPO over the past 10 years, and an oversubscription level of more than 25 times across all tranches (excluding Cornerstone Investors). Cornerstone investors included leading sovereign and institutional investors from across the GCC. 

Ghannam Butti Almazrouei, Chairman of ADX, said: “The successful listing of Lulu Retail Holdings on ADX underlines the UAE’s economic resilience and dynamism, bolstering ADX’s diversified sector offerings and paves the way for more consumer and retail issuers to tap into ADX’s platform. Lulu’s addition to ADX’s growing portfolio reflects the UAE’s strides in cultivating a robust, multi-sector economy. 

As this year’s largest IPO in the UAE, Lulu drew incredible demand from a global investor base, solidifying ADX’s role as a premier gateway for capital flows. This milestone aligns with ADX’s commitment to sustainable economic development, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading financial hub and advancing the UAE’s long-term vision. We are proud to support Lulu Retail and all our listed companies as they drive our nation’s financial growth and prosperity, contributing to a brighter and thriving economic future.” 

Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Retail, said: “Our listing on ADX marks a day of great pride for the entire Lulu team. Many of our 55,000 employees have been with our Company for decades, demonstrating their commitment to providing for our customers and to growing our business, and this achievement would not have been possible without them. Our journey has been guided by the aspiration and vision of our regional leaders and their commitment to supporting the growth and success of businesses like ours. We’re delighted to list Lulu Retail on ADX in our home of Abu Dhabi and to provide an opportunity for local and international investors to benefit from the opportunity in our region and the growth and ambition of Lulu Retail.” 

Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group Chief Executive Officer of ADX, said: “Firstly, we extend our heartful congratulations to the Lulu Retail team on their successful listing on ADX. Lulu’s landmark achievement, underscores the robustness of the UAE economy and ADX’s role as a growth enabler and listing platform. As the 100th listed company on ADX, Lulu has set the record as the largest private sector IPO for a home-grown company in the UAE. Its inclusion in the ADX family adds an additional AED 21 billion to our market capitalization. 

“This demonstrates the growing attraction of Abu Dhabi’s capital market and the exchange’s commitment to fostering cross-border investment.” 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

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Dubai to host grand Diwali celebration 

The Diwali celebration in Zabeel Park, anticipated to attract 40,000 people, will showcase the diversity of Indian culture through a vibrant array of cultural, artistic, musical, and folkloric activities, including a special segment honouring the outstanding achievements of Indians in the UAE….reports Asian Lite News

The UAE is joining the Indian community’s celebration of the Festival of Lights ‘Diwali’ with a grand event in Dubai on 16 November, in the presence of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Sunjay Sudhir, India’s Ambassador to the UAE, alongside a host of diplomats and dignitaries from the Indian community in the UAE. 

Organised by “Emirates Love India,” with support from the UAE Government Media Office and the participation of Dubai Police, the upcoming Diwali celebration showcases the harmony and diversity of Indian folklore, culture, and art. This event, reflecting the close historical ties between the UAE and India, features a variety of activities highlighting India’s rich heritage and the Indian community’s contributions to the UAE’s sustainable development. 

The Diwali celebration in Zabeel Park, anticipated to attract 40,000 people, will showcase the diversity of Indian culture through a vibrant array of cultural, artistic, musical, and folkloric activities, including a special segment honouring the outstanding achievements of Indians in the UAE. 

This event not only highlights the UAE’s success in fostering a peaceful and harmonious multicultural society but also underscores its commitment to global partnerships and cross-cultural understanding. By actively participating in the celebrations of its diverse international communities, the UAE reinforces its global standing as a champion of tolerance and coexistence. 

The UAE-India ties are rooted in a long history of close collaboration, exemplified by the bilateral cultural agreement signed during the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s historical visit to India in January 1975. 

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to India in January 2017 marked a turning point in bilateral relations, culminating in a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement and 13 other agreements and MoUs. 

Additionally, a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed between the two nations is expected to boost investments and trade flow, paving the way to increasing bilateral non-oil trade exchange to US $100 billion by 2030. 

The UAE and India have maintained these strong ties through 14 meetings of the CEPA Joint Committee and three strategic dialogues. 

The large Indian community in the UAE thrives as a harmonious part of its diverse society, contributing significantly to the deepening of economic, social, and cultural ties between both nations. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

ALSO READ: Jaishankar in UAE to deepen India-UAE ties 

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UAE hails COP29 progress on Loss and Damage Fund 

COP29 has drawn broad international participation, with a renewed vision aimed at accelerating global climate action…reports Asian Lite News

The COP28 Presidency was handed over to Azerbaijan on 11th November, where during the opening ceremony, significant emphasis was put on the need for accelerated action to drive the implementation of the UAE Consensus announced in Dubai last year. 

At the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Azerbaijan, the UAE participated in the operational launch of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD). The FRLD is now accepting contributions and is expected to start financing projects in 2025. 

Abdulla al Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, and Member of the FRLD Board, said: “We stand united in our collective aim to support those that are impacted by climate-induced damages; especially those throughout vulnerable communities where the greatest burden often falls. For these communities, the impacts of loss and damage extend far beyond economic hardships. They bear the weight of irreplaceable losses—losses that affect their culture, identity, and very way of life.” 

“It is our shared responsibility to progress a united effort and strengthen coordination, foster meaningful knowledge sharing, and, most importantly, mobilise resources at an unprecedented level. As we mark this important milestone, let us renew our commitment to collective action, every effort, and every policy implemented serves those most impacted. The UAE stands ready to contribute towards a future of resilience and climate justice for all.” 

Last year, at COP28 in Dubai, countries from across the globe signed the landmark UAE Consensus, ushering in a new chapter of ambitious climate action which aimed to re-engage the world with the priorities of our planet. The UAE Consensus is a living, breathing climate action framework to keep 1.5°C within reach, setting out ambitious targets in areas ranging from transitioning away from all fossil fuels to reach net zero by 2050, to tripling renewables and double energy efficiency by 2030. 

The agreement to operationalise and capitalise FRLD was passed on the first day of COP28 – the first time such a substantive decision had been made on the first day of a COP. Parties made history through the operationalization and initial capitalisation of the Fund for Responding to loss and damage, which amounted to over $850 million in the first 48 hours of the opening of COP28. 

COP29 has drawn broad international participation, with a renewed vision aimed at accelerating global climate action. By aligning global priorities with practical capacities and turning them into tangible and equitable outcomes, the UAE will help ambitiously accelerate action. 

The UAE launched its dynamic and robust programming on Wednesday 13th at its Pavilion and at Goals House. These insightful discussions will bring together climate experts, government officials, private sector leaders, academics, and youth to exchange ideas and co-create solutions for the most pressing climate challenges. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

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Hamdan meets with CEO of X Corp 

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai and the UAE continue to build mutually beneficial cooperation with leading players in the digital media industry…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, held a meeting with Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X Corp. (formerly Twitter), at The Executive Office in Emirates Towers in Dubai. 

Sheikh Hamdan’ meeting with the CEO of one of the world’s largest social media platforms underlines the UAE and Dubai’s commitment to forging partnerships with leading global technology companies, as part of its goal of consolidating its status as an international hub for future-focused innovations. 

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai and the UAE continue to build mutually beneficial cooperation with leading players in the digital media industry and explore synergies that align with the country’s goal to bring about digital transformation across various spheres of life. 

Highlighting the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to generate AED100 billion in annual economic value through digital transformation over the next decade, Sheikh Hamdan said X is a valuable partner in the country’s efforts to drive innovation and adoption of new technologies. 

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan further said X’s vision to transform itself into an all-in-one digital hub creates unique complementarities with the UAE’s focus on AI and other advanced technologies. Having established itself as the region’s media epicentre over two decades, Dubai offers a unique platform for international companies seeking to innovate and expand their business. 

With around 4,000 media and tech companies forming a vibrant industry ecosystem, Dubai not only provides a supportive infrastructure but also serves as a launchpad for pioneering initiatives. The city offers the ideal base for the world’s leading companies to introduce groundbreaking services, drive technological advancements, and set new benchmarks in digital engagement in the region and beyond, Sheikh Hamdan said. 

The meeting explored potential partnerships aligned with the UAE and X’s shared commitment to innovation and digital transformation. As the UAE looks toward the future with ambitious growth and digital transformation goals, HH Sheikh Hamdan expressed confidence in having X as a long-term partner. 

“We are excited to explore how this partnership can create lasting value for both the UAE and X, setting an example for impactful collaboration between a global technology leader and one of the world’s most future-ready nations,” he added. 

X (formerly Twitter) opened its first office in the Middle East and North Africa region in Dubai in 2015. The region is home to some of the company’s largest markets. The company had 250 million daily active users as of mid-2024. 

The meeting was attended by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, and Director-General of the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office. 

ALSO READ: Jaishankar in UAE to deepen India-UAE ties 

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UAE continues sending aid to Lebanese women 

All Emirati humanitarian institutions and charities are involved in consistent efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people caught in the ongoing conflict….reports Asian Lite News

The UAE has sent to Beirut two aircraft as part of the “UAE stands with Lebanon” campaign, carrying a gift of 80 tonnes of essentials for women from H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation”, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation. 

All Emirati humanitarian institutions and charities are involved in consistent efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people caught in the ongoing conflict. 

The campaign, launched in early October as per the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is continuing to dispatch urgent relief materials for the people of Lebanon, with follow up from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the supervision of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council. 

Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organisations and Member of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, affirmed the continued support of the UAE and its leadership, government, and people, reflecting deep-rooted values of solidarity. 

These efforts are integral to the legacy left behind by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, toward providing urgent assistance in such emergency crises and working continuously with all relevant local, regional, and international organisations to provide the necessary materials to those affected, wounded, and injured to ensure early recovery and achieve security and stability. ‏ 

Al Shamsi also emphasised the profound commitment of the “Mother of the Nation,” in empowering and supporting the women of Lebanon during challenging times through meeting their need for food, medicines, and shelter supplies. 

He highlighted that the two aircraft dispatched were the 19th and 20th of the relief airbridge campaign. Furthermore, Al Shamsi underlined that the UAE will continue its immediate relief endeavours for the Lebanese people, both within Lebanon and among Lebanese refugees in Syria, by providing essential supplies and basic needs for all. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

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EU-UAE conclude talks on anti-money laundering 

This high-level meeting underscored the ongoing commitment and collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and the European Union…reports Asian Lite News

The seventh EU-UAE Structural Dialogue on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) was held in Abu Dhabi. 

This high-level meeting underscored the ongoing commitment and collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and the European Union in combating financial crimes and enhancing international cooperation. 

The meeting was chaired by Saeed Al Hajeri, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs. 

Participating UAE authorities included the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Interior, the Secretariat-General of the National AML/CFT Committee, the Financial Intelligence Unit, the Ministry of Justice, the Central Bank of the UAE, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), Dubai Police, Economic Security Centre of Dubai, and the Executive Office for Control and Non-Proliferation (EOCN). 

The European Union’s delegation was attended by Lucie Berger, Head of the EU Delegation to the United Arab Emirates, and included various EU agencies such as the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA), the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME), the Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers (DG JUST), and the External Action Service (EEAS). 

During the Structural Dialogue, Saeed Al Hajeri highlighted the UAE’s position as “one of the world’s fastest-growing economies” and a “dynamic hub for innovation, trade, and investment.” 

He emphasised that the UAE’s economic foundation is built on a resilient, efficient financial system backed by substantial support from the leadership and strict measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. 

These efforts, he noted, are vital for ensuring security, fostering transparency, and strengthening the UAE’s global competitiveness. In that context, he also reiterated the UAE’s commitment to engage with international counterparts, including the European Union and its various institutions and Member States. 

During the dialogue, both sides discussed current global trends and challenges in the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The UAE underlined its recent endeavours and strategic initiatives to strengthen collaboration with the EU and its Member States, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in combating AML/CFT. 

Furthermore, the UAE provided an in-depth briefing on its National Strategy, which lays out a solid framework for countering financial crime, preventing the misuse of the financial system, and mitigating risks associated with AML/CFT. 

Both the UAE and the EU explored potential avenues for continued and expanded cooperation to bolster mutual efforts to safeguard financial systems from illicit activities, protect their integrity, and uphold international standards. 

The 7th EU-UAE Structural Dialogue on AML/CFT marks a step forward in the robust partnership between the UAE and the EU, strengthening the shared determination to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism through effective and collaborative measures. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

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UAE continues sending aid to Lebanese women 

All Emirati humanitarian institutions and charities are involved in consistent efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people caught in the ongoing conflict….reports Asian Lite News

The UAE has sent to Beirut two aircraft as part of the “UAE stands with Lebanon” campaign, carrying a gift of 80 tonnes of essentials for women from H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation”, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation. 

All Emirati humanitarian institutions and charities are involved in consistent efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people caught in the ongoing conflict. 

The campaign, launched in early October as per the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is continuing to dispatch urgent relief materials for the people of Lebanon, with follow up from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the supervision of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council. 

Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organisations and Member of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, affirmed the continued support of the UAE and its leadership, government, and people, reflecting deep-rooted values of solidarity. 

These efforts are integral to the legacy left behind by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, toward providing urgent assistance in such emergency crises and working continuously with all relevant local, regional, and international organisations to provide the necessary materials to those affected, wounded, and injured to ensure early recovery and achieve security and stability. ‏ 

Al Shamsi also emphasised the profound commitment of the “Mother of the Nation,” in empowering and supporting the women of Lebanon during challenging times through meeting their need for food, medicines, and shelter supplies. 

He highlighted that the two aircraft dispatched were the 19th and 20th of the relief airbridge campaign. Furthermore, Al Shamsi underlined that the UAE will continue its immediate relief endeavours for the Lebanese people, both within Lebanon and among Lebanese refugees in Syria, by providing essential supplies and basic needs for all. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education 

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India-UAE ties hit new heights: Jaishankar 

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the UAE in 2015, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the growing strength of India-UAE relations, stating that both countries are now in an “era of new milestones”. .reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, received in Abu Dhabi Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India. 

The two sides discussed bilateral cooperation, as well as the comprehensive strategic partnership and comprehensive economic partnership between both nations, and their role in supporting both nations’ efforts to achieve comprehensive development and sustainable economic prosperity. 

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah emphasised that the UAE and India share strong and advanced historical ties, highlighting that the comprehensive strategic partnership and economic partnership have facilitated significant advancements in bilateral cooperation across various sectors. 

The ministers also explored joint cooperation within the framework of international organisations and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. 

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the UAE in 2015, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the growing strength of India-UAE relations, stating that both countries are now in an “era of new milestones”.  

Speaking at the launch of Symbiosis International University’s campus in Dubai on Thursday, Jaishankar noted that the ties between India and the UAE have reached new heights, driven by key collaborations in sectors like fintech, renewable energy, infrastructure, and defence. 

Jaishankar pointed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to the UAE in 2015, which was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over a century to the emirate state, marking a significant turning point in bilateral relations. 

“India-UAE ties are today truly in an era of new milestones. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit in 2015 was the first in the century, and so are our Comprehensive Economic Partnerships for negotiating on record time,” Jaishankar said. 

“Fintech linkages like RuPay-Jaywan or UPI-AANE are also the first in the domain. The activity and collaborations that we are constantly expanding, be it renewable energy, infrastructure, digital tech, defence or security. They are all path-breaking in their own way,” he added. 

He emphasised that the launch of the Symbiosis campus in Dubai is part of a broader trend that reflects the growing educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries. 

“This campus and your education are part of a larger trend that has seen India and the UAE come close in an unprecedented way,” he said. 

Jaishankar also addressed the youth, acknowledging that they face both extraordinary opportunities and formidable challenges. 

Visit to BAPS 

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. He said that the temple was a sign of friendship between India and UAE. 

In a post on X, he said, “Received blessings at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi today. A true symbol of India-UAE friendship and of peace, harmony and goodwill around the world.” 

Jaishankar also visited the Bharat Mart site in Dubai earlier in the day. 

In a post on X, he said, “Visited Bharat Mart site in Jebel Ali, Dubai today along with Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World. Once operationalised, this innovative logistics initiative will enhance India-UAE trade, deepen supply chains and bolster access for our MSMEs to global markets.” 

The EAM also launched his book, ‘Why Bharat Matters’ at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai. 

In a post on X, he said, “Participated in an interactive session at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, Dubai for the book launch of Why Bharat Matters. Spoke about grasping the global transformation underway and understanding the rise of Bharat.” 

The traditionally strong bilateral relations between India and the UAE gained new momentum when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the UAE in 2015, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 34 years. This marked the beginning of a new Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership between the two nations. In 2022, India and the UAE signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during a virtual summit between PM Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 

From the UAE, there have been multiple visits by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. In 2016 and 2017, he visited as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. In September 2023, he visited India as the President of the UAE to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. In November 2023, he participated in the 2nd Virtual Global South Summit. In January 2024, he visited Gujarat to attend the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit as the Chief Guest. 

On the matter of educational ties between the two nations, more than 100 international Indian schools are there in the UAE following the CBSE and Kerala Board curricula, with mostly children of Indian expatriates settled in the UAE. 

ALSO READ: COP29: UAE urges greater collaboration, inclusion, education