Abdulla Al Shamsi is the United Arab Emirates’ ambassador to Nepal
In an increasingly fragmented world, the United Arab Emirates stands out for its balanced, forward-thinking approach to diplomacy. At the heart of our global engagement lies a powerful tool: economic diplomacy. Through trade, investment, and strategic cooperation, the UAE has emerged not just as a regional hub but as a respected global partner. This is achieved through fostering international partnerships, promoting soft power, and contributing to humanitarian efforts.
Economic diplomacy is more than just policy for the UAE—it is a core pillar of how we interact with the world. We do not simply aspire to peace and cooperation; we back our diplomatic vision with tangible outcomes. Whether it’s facilitating multilateral trade, investing in sustainable infrastructure, or tackling global crises with generosity, our engagement is grounded in results.
One of the UAE’s greatest diplomatic strengths is its awareness. This was evident during the US-China trade tensions, where we maintained balanced and constructive relationships with both nations. We neither chose any sides nor allowed ideological alignments to compromise our interests. Instead, we emphasized practical solutions and kept our focus on dialogue and cooperation. This approach enabled the UAE to turn global challenges into opportunities—boosting re-exports, strengthening transshipment routes, and enhancing supply chain diversification through our ports and logistics networks.
At the same time, multilateralism remains a defining feature of our foreign policy. The UAE’s active participation in global and regional organizations allows us to contribute to shared challenges—from security concerns to climate change. Our mediation efforts, including during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlight our capacity to act as a neutral, respected voice. Facilitating the exchange of 2,583 prisoners of war is a powerful example of how diplomacy can serve humanity. It illustrates how diplomacy may be used to resolve humanitarian concerns, strengthen ties between nations, and even advance more general political goals.
Our role as host of COP28 further cemented our reputation as a responsible and visionary partner in addressing global challenges. Sustainability, climate diplomacy, and green innovation are not just themes we support—they are priorities we integrate into our national agenda and international strategy.
Beyond economics and diplomacy, humanitarianism is woven into the fabric of our identity. Since its founding, the UAE has provided over $98 billion in foreign assistance, positively impacting more than a billion people. We are consistently ranked among the world’s most generous donors. In every region—from Africa to South Asia—we aim not just to provide aid but to empower communities and support peace.
Our diplomatic efforts are anchored by visionary leadership. Dr. Anwar Gargash, whose name now graces the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), laid the groundwork for much of our modern foreign policy. His commitment to multilateralism, de-escalation, and peace has been foundational in shaping our global identity.
Today, AGDA plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of Emirati diplomats. By aligning academic training with our national priorities—such as economic diversification, climate resilience, and international cooperation—the academy ensures that our diplomatic corps is both capable and future-ready. Through its partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, AGDA equips students with real-world experience and the tools needed to navigate a rapidly changing global landscape.
In all that we do, the UAE remains committed to promoting dialogue, building bridges, and advancing peace. Our diplomacy is guided not by confrontation but by constructive engagement, not by isolation but by integration with the global community.
As Ambassador, I am proud to represent a nation that values wisdom, resilience, and proactive cooperation. The UAE’s model of economic diplomacy offers a compelling path forward—not just for our region, but for the world.
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