Zayed Centre for Studies and Research organises lecture on UAE-China relations

ABU DHABI, 23rd July, 2018 (WAM) -- The Zayed Centre for Studies and Research, a branch of the Emirates Heritage Club, organised a lecture, titled, 'Emirati-Chinese Ties: New Prospects of Cooperation', as part of UAE-China Week, hosted by Manarat Al Saadiyat. Fatma Al Mansouri, Director of the Centre, stated that the ties between the UAE and China were established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan while noting his historic visit to China in 1990. She added that these relations are witnessing a progress, and China considers the UAE as its gateway to Arab countries. She also pointed out that the UAE plays a key role in these relations, due to its advanced infrastructure. Dr. Hamdan Al Darai, Head of the Studies and Research Section of the Centre, described the visit of the Xi Jinping, President of China, to the UAE as a meeting between the Middle East and the Far East in Abu Dhabi while highlighting the Belt and Road Initiative announced by President Xi, as well as its historic roots that originate from the old silk road. The Gulf region, especially Abu Dhabi, is strategically important to China’s policies, he added. Al Darai also highlighted the historic importance of the Middle East and addressed China’s relations with other countries and its strategic motives. The lecture was attended by Sanan Ahmed Al Muhairi, Executive Director of Activities and Events at the Emirates Heritage Club, and Ahmed Murshid Al Rumaithi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Centre, as well as many researchers and those interested in the topic.