Ras Al Khaimah signs exchange, cooperation agreement with Guangdong Province in China

H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and Wang Weizhong, Governor of Guangdong, were present to witness the signing of an agreement between Ras Al Khaimah and China’s most populous province to strengthen and promote exchange and cooperation across a number of sectors of mutual interest. The agreement, signed in the presence of the UAE Ambassador to China, Hussain Al Hammadi, and the UAE Consul General in Guangzhou, Mariam Al Shamsi, details several areas where Ras Al Khaimah and Guangdong will collaborate more closely, namely: digital economy; scientific and technological innovation; advanced manufacturing; smart cities; and culture and tourism. It also acknowledges the “significant advances in the relationship between the UAE and China” in recent years and highlights Ras Al Khaimah and Guangdong’s desire to “increase understanding and friendship, and promote mutually beneficial, long-lasting and effective cooperation”. H.H. Sheikh Saud said: “This agreement between Ras Al Khaimah and Guangdong Province marks the beginning of a new era of collaboration and mutual growth, though it is also a continuation of the long-standing and historical ties between our regions, with evidence of trade dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. “Today’s agreement reflects our shared commitment to enhance economic, cultural and technological ties, and will open new avenues for innovation and opportunity. We seek to foster mutual prosperity, strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to the broader vision of global connectivity and progress. “As we work together to build a brighter future, Ras Al Khaimah reaffirms its dedication to strengthening international relations and contributing to global prosperity and peace.” With a population of over 126 million people, Guangdong has the largest economy of any province in China, with a GDP of $1.9 trillion (AED6.98 trillion) in 2023. It is a major manufacturing hub, with electronics, automotive, textiles, pharmaceuticals, high-tech industries, finance and real estate making up some of the key sectors. The agreement was signed by Mohammed Sultan Al Qadi, Board Member of Ras Al Khaimah’s Investment and Development Office, and Chen Guangjun, Acting Director General of Guangdong Foreign Affairs Office, followed by a celebratory dinner, hosted by the Guangdong Governor.