Thani Al-Siodi: Africa is key to the world’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable economy

Minister of Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani bin Ahmad Al Zayudi, stressed the importance of trade with the countries of the African continent, as the continent’s countries are a vibrant, promising economy full of opportunities in a high-growth region. He added that there is a common desire to advance relations with Africa to a new level of partnership and economic development. The joint venture, by opening up new areas for partnership and joint projects between the two sides’ business communities, offers more at the same time. Opportunities for small and medium enterprises.
Al-Siodi said during a conference in Dubai yesterday under the theme “Transforming African Trade for Climate Adaptation and Sustainable Development”.
He added: “Africa will play an increasingly important role in the world’s efforts to transition to a sustainable economy, with natural resources, talent and business links to develop and distribute green goods and services. Supporting Africa’s ability to develop renewable energy. Resources, extraction of needed minerals and supply of its producers Linking to chains should be considered a development priority.” “Platforms like Sustainable Trade in Africa are a key driver of stakeholder collaboration in these initiatives, enabling investment in strategically important sectors that can boost Africa’s economic resilience and independence – and support global economic transformation.”
During the forum, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, Sultan Ahmad Bin Sulayem highlighted the importance of sustainability in inter-African trade as it pursues cost-effective logistics solutions from Africa and Dubai Ports World Group (DP World) growth goals. This is the same approach that the African continent is looking for, an economic vision that will stimulate the establishment of promising partnerships.
Walid Hareb Al Falahi, CEO of Emirates Trade Centre, said: “Pioneering initiatives such as sustainable trade in Africa play an important role in Africa’s enormous potential in various sectors, fostering new perspectives in each initiative.” Years as CEO of Dubai Consulting and Mall of the Emirates Reveals Africa’s untapped potential as a beacon for visionary investors. As we move forward, our commitment to continued innovation and significant contributions extends to the upcoming COP29 and UNGA79.”
Wamkele Maini, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, said: “Our continent is progressing not only in natural resources, but also in green trade and various sustainable practices. We are contributing to protecting our planet for future generations.”
Professor Benedict Orama, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export Bank, said: I congratulate the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zayoti, and the Government of the UAE. To host the Conference of Parties and put issues of importance to Africa on its agenda, the Conference has made sustainable trade a key initiative in Africa, aiming to strike a delicate balance between protecting our world and striving for trade and economic growth. Less prosperous economies like those in Africa. Achieving this balance is critical to avoid the difficult choice between protecting the planet for the future and ensuring basic livelihoods today. I appreciate our valued partners Waleed Hareb Al Falahi, CEO of UAE Center and Dubai Consulting, and Wamkele Myeni, African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, for their cooperation in organizing this important event.
The event succeeded in bringing together influencers, experts and stakeholders in the region, including Prof. Benedict Oke Orama, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afrexim Bank; African Export Bank and His Excellency Nardo Bekele Thomas, CEO, New Partnership for Africa’s Development; And keynote speakers like Drs. James Mwangi, Group Managing Director and Group CEO, Equity Holdings; Solomon Gwener, Vice President – Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, African Development Bank; Shaka Kariuki, Co-CEO and Chief Investment Officer, Koraku Capital Management; Yusuf Daya, Trade Relations and Policy Director, African Union/African Export Bank.