China Calls for Deeper Cooperation with UAE Across Key Sectors

Diplomatic Talks in Abu Dhabi Foster Enhanced Partnership

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged the United Arab Emirates to deepen cooperation across a range of traditional and emerging industries during a meeting with UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The high-level discussions took place on Friday, December 12, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, as part of Wang Yi's three-nation Middle East tour.

During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized Beijing's support for the UAE's development path and its increasing role in international and regional affairs. He highlighted China's readiness to strengthen high-level exchanges, consolidate political mutual trust, and elevate bilateral relations.

Focus on Traditional and Emerging Industries

The call for deeper cooperation specifically targeted crucial sectors, including:

• Oil and Gas: A foundational element of the economic relationship.
• Investment: Both countries seek to boost two-way investment flows.
• Infrastructure Development: Advancing projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
• New Energy: Expanding collaboration in renewable energy.
• Technological Innovation: Exploring new areas of technological advancement.

Wang Yi also proposed establishing a production-capacity cooperation park to support high-quality development and called for advancing the Belt and Road Initiative.

Broader Strategic Context and Economic Ties

The meeting underscores China's broader strategy to expand its influence in the Middle East, secure energy supplies, and diversify partnerships in the Gulf region. The UAE is a significant economic partner for China, serving as its second-largest trading partner in the Middle East, while China holds the position of the UAE's largest global trading partner. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached over $100 billion in 2024.

Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan reaffirmed the UAE's firm adherence to the one-China principle and expressed willingness to maintain high-level exchanges and expand cooperation across various fields, including trade, energy, science and technology, and education. The two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

Future Engagements and Regional Cooperation

Looking ahead, Wang Yi extended an invitation for UAE leaders to attend the second China-Arab States Summit, which China is set to host next year. He also urged the UAE to play a positive role in advancing negotiations for an early conclusion of a China-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) free-trade agreement. China is the GCC's largest trading partner, importing 180 million tonnes of crude oil from the bloc last year.