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balance of global power continues to shift. Geoeconomics sessions analyzed the impact of
economic fragmentation and divergent trade policies on the global economy, while addressing
strategies for adaptation through innovation and repositioning.
In his keynote address, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said: “The
United Arab Emirates carries a proud legacy in the fields of economy and commerce, built over
centuries of progress. Throughout its history, the nation has strengthened its economic and
investment ties with the world, becoming a vital hub that connects East and West, North and
South. Today, the UAE stands as one of the most dynamic and influential economic players
globally, advancing through a collaborative and inclusive approach to economic diplomacy."

In a special address, Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs at the UAE Ministry of
Foreign Affairs, underlined that the dialogues hosted by Hili Forum strengthen the UAE’s soft power
and influence by enabling knowledge exchange, cooperation, and inclusive dialogue across regions
and sectors.

Dr. Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ECSSR, underlined the value of dialogue at the Forum in
transforming global disruptions into opportunities for cooperation, innovation, and growth. He said:
“The Hili Forum represents the continuation of the strategic partnership with the Anwar Gargash
Diplomatic Academy and reaffirms the commitment to bringing together officials, experts, and
specialists under the umbrella of Hili to address the most pressing regional and international
issues. The choice of the name ‘Hili’ underscores the cultural and intellectual depth of the United
Arab Emirates, which for thousands of years has stood as a crossroads of civilization, culture, and
trade.”

For his part, Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, said: “The second edition of the Hili
Forum reflects the UAE’s determination to move beyond dialogue toward practical solutions and
strategic partnerships that can withstand global uncertainty. The UAE’s approach to diplomacy
combines foresight with action, positioning the country not only as a convener of ideas but also as
a catalyst for collaboration that strengthens security, advances sustainable development, and
creates pathways for long-term prosperity. Through such initiatives, the UAE reaffirms its
commitment to helping shape an international order that is more stable, balanced, and inclusive.”

Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of AGDA, moderated a session on
“The Global Gulf: Middle Powers and Mediation Diplomacy.” Reflecting on the discussions, he said:
“Today’s sessions highlighted how middle powers are uniquely positioned to facilitate mediation
and resolve conflicts. By bringing together leading experts and practitioners, the Forum created a
space for exchanging ideas and forging collaborative solutions, demonstrating the UAE’s
commitment to dialogue, stability, and constructive international engagement.”

The Forum welcomed a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Dr. Bisher Al Khasawneh,
Member of the Senate and Former Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Jordan; Prof.
Mohamed Bin Huwaidin, Dean of College of Humanities and Social Sciences, United Arab Emirates
University; Nasser Judeh, former Deputy Prime Minister and former Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Jordan; Ambassador Douglas Silliman, Former US Ambassador to Iraq and President of the Arab
Gulf States Institute; Dr. Ebtesam Al Ketbi, President and Founder of the Emirates Policy Center,
UAE; Ambassador Francesco Talò, Italian Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic

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