Page 235 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

5/23/25, 4:56 PM Second edition of Economy Middle East Summit takes off
He said, “It is a deep personal pleasure to join you at the second edition of the Economy Middle East
Summit. We come together as governments, businesses, and stakeholders to share knowledge,
forge partnerships, and imagine new possibilities for the future of our economies and our region.”

He added, “Today, we gather at a critical moment that demands clarity of vision, boldness of action,
and depth of partnership. The global economic landscape is undergoing profound transformation,
driven by shifts in trade, geopolitical realignments, technological revolutions, and societal
expectations. These changes offer rare windows of opportunity.”

He affirmed the UAE’s proactive approach under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh
Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, saying, “We are fully committed to economic diversification,
innovation, and global competitiveness. From smart infrastructure and AI to sustainable finance and
forward-looking education, we are building the pillars of future growth.”

Sheikh Nahyan went on to stress regional integration, stating, “Now is the time to transform our
regional ties into corridors of collaboration and opportunity. We must harmonise digital trade
regulations, invest in green infrastructure, nurture entrepreneurs, and align our innovation and
education systems. By working together, we can ensure that the Middle East is not only resilient, but
energised with new possibilities.”

He concluded, “‘Bridging Sectors, Building Economic Growth’ is not just a slogan, it is a mission. Let
us invest boldly, collaborate openly, and build a sustainable, inclusive economic future for our region.”

Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, delivered the opening remarks and shared the UAE’s
perspective on navigating the global economy. “The global economic landscape in 2025 is marked by
heightened uncertainty. The IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook projects global growth at 2.8

percent and this year at 3 percent next year,” the minister said.

Al Marri explained that the slower-than-usual growth is primarily due to escalating trade tensions and
persistent policy uncertainty. He also mentioned the resurgence of protectionist policies, most notably

the recent US tariff hikes, which have disrupted trade flows, eroded business confidence, and
delayed investments.

He added, “Our approach is rooted in the belief that economic prosperity is achieved through
cooperation, not isolation. By building bridges, we aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable
global economy. Our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with countries
across Asia, Europe, and Africa reflect this commitment, expanding our market access, strengthening
supply chains, and accelerating investment flows. These agreements have not only diversified our
economic partnerships but have also bolstered our resilience against external shocks. As a result, we
expect the impact of recent US tariffs on the UAE economy to remain limited.”

Salem Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority, said, “As an official partner of the Economy Middle East
Summit, we are pleased to have been part of this platform that brought together influential voices
from across the region. The event not only provided an invaluable opportunity for industry experts
and leaders to engage in meaningful discussions, but also an opportunity for the ecosystem to listen

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