Attendees pose for a group photo at the second UAE-China Think Tank Forum in Beijing, Sept. 23, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The second UAE-China Think Tank Forum was held in Beijing from Sept. 23-25, under the theme "Building Bridges and Driving Innovation." Hosted by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in China, the forum brought together senior officials, academics and experts from both countries to discuss fresh opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE ambassador to China, delivers a speech at the second UAE-China Think Tank Forum in Beijing, Sept. 23, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

In his opening remarks, Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to China, emphasized that UAE-China relations are witnessing a "golden era" of cooperation, with growing partnerships across the political, economic, trade, cultural and diplomatic spheres.

He noted: "Think tanks, research institutions and universities play a vital role in this cooperation, serving as platforms to explore opportunities, generate innovative ideas and shape sound policies."

"Investing in knowledge and human talent is just as important as investing in the economy and infrastructure," Al Hammadi added. "By strengthening research collaboration between the UAE and China, we are not only building the foundation for bilateral projects but also contributing to a safer and more prosperous future for humanity."

The opening session was attended by Chen Weiqing, director-general of the Department of West Asian and North African Affairs at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Abdulla Al Saleh, undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The event also drew representatives from government, research institutions, universities, think tanks, and the public and private sectors.  

In addition, the forum featured a special exhibition with leading think tanks from the UAE and China showcasing publications, research studies and intellectual contributions that reflect the trajectory of scientific and academic cooperation between the two countries. The exhibition further enriched discussions and opened new channels for engagement among academic and research institutions.

Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2024, the second UAE-China Think Tank Forum reaffirms the shared commitment of both sides to fostering constructive dialogue, building bridges and driving innovation toward a more prosperous future.