logo
The UAE and Italy: a strong partnership for the future

The UAE and Italy: a strong partnership for the future

The National24-02-2025

Strong partnerships are built on shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for the future. The relationship between the UAE and Italy embodies these principles, bringing together two nations deeply committed to peace, prosperity, and growth. These values are reflected in the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi and the Document on Human Fraternity signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al Azhar in 2019, in the UAE. Today, our bond is stronger than ever, driven by a shared commitment to creating opportunities for our people and contributing to a more stable and prosperous world. This is a forward-looking partnership with deep historical roots. It is no coincidence that the earliest written references to many locations in the UAE, such as Sir Bani Yas, Dubai, and Sharjah, appear in a book published by the Venetian traveller Gasparo Balbi in 1590, which is now displayed in the public spaces of Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi. In 1951, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, visited Italy as part of a journey through which he experienced the richness of European culture and history. At the time, the UAE did not yet exist in its present form, but Sheikh Zayed was already thinking about the future. Inspired by what he had seen, he wanted the same progress for his people. Italy was a country that had risen again through determination and ingenuity, blending a respect for tradition with a vision for innovation. Seventy-four years later, our relations have evolved into a powerful force for progress. The visit of President Sheikh Mohamed to Italy this week, and his meetings with President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, mark a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that will define our co-operation for decades to come. Trade has long been a pillar of our relationship. Non-oil trade between Italy and the UAE has been steadily increasing, which demonstrates the strong commercial ties that support jobs, drive innovation, and fuel economic growth. From design and aerospace to technology and sustainability, our two nations are hubs of excellence, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This week, we have made significant progress, expanding co-operation in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing. Italy's global expertise in robotics and automation complements the UAE's bold investments in innovation, enabling both countries to lead the way in global technological advancements. Space is another frontier where our collaboration is growing stronger. Italy is one of the few countries with independent access to space, while the UAE has rapidly emerged as a leader in space exploration, launching the first Arab mission to Mars. Our co-operation in this field is not just about technology – it is about human ambition, curiosity, and a shared determination to push beyond the limits of what we know. Together, we are addressing global challenges such as food security and climate change. We share a vision of an Expanded Mediterranean of peace, stretching from Italy to the Gulf region and beyond, towards India. We are active participants in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, one of the most ambitious interregional connectivity projects. This will link India to Europe via the Middle East, spanning 5,000 kilometres of maritime and railway connections, opening new pathways for economic development. Our focus also extends to Africa, a continent of immense potential. Italy and the UAE are committed to a partnership-based, mutually beneficial approach. Through Italy's Mattei Plan and the UAE's long-term investments in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture, we are working together to create opportunities for Africa and its people. Progress comes with responsibilities. We recognise that innovation must serve stability. That is why we have deepened our co-operation in defence, cybersecurity, and the fight against transnational crime, and terrorism. We also believe that diplomacy must be proactive. Whether addressing conflicts in Ukraine or in the Middle East, we are committed to finding solutions that prioritise peace and humanitarian relief. Our two countries believe in the power of dialogue over division, and pragmatism over inaction. Italy and the UAE are partners in driving a sustainable energy transition that fosters development. We are at the cutting edge of innovative solutions – from the €1 billion ($1.04 billion) agreement that will allow Italy to import renewable energy from Albania and the Balkans, providing clean power to Italian households, to our joint research on water management and sustainable agriculture. We are demonstrating that the green transition is not just a necessity, but an opportunity. The UAE's expertise in large-scale renewable projects and Italy's leadership in clean energy technologies make us natural partners in this mission. The extraordinary friendship and strategic partnership between Italy and the UAE are built on people. It is the scientists conducting research together, the students, artists, and professionals whose exchanges enrich our societies. This week's visit is a milestone and a pivotal moment for our future. Italy and the UAE are moving forward as global strategic partners, not just adapting to a changing world but actively shaping it. Together, we are building a future of peace, prosperity, and growth – rooted in innovation, strengthened by security, and guided by our commitment to future generations.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

US warns countries not to join French, Saudi UN conference on Palestine: Report
US warns countries not to join French, Saudi UN conference on Palestine: Report

Middle East Eye

time3 hours ago

  • Middle East Eye

US warns countries not to join French, Saudi UN conference on Palestine: Report

The US is lobbying foreign governments not to attend a UN conference next week sponsored by France and Saudi Arabia on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, according to a US diplomatic cable reported by Reuters. The cable, sent to countries on Tuesday, warns them against taking "anti-Israel actions" and says attending the conference would be viewed by Washington as acting against US foreign policy interests. France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is a US ally in Nato. Saudi Arabia is one of the US's closest Middle East partners. US President Donald Trump was feted during a May visit to Riyadh, where Saudi Arabia signed billions of dollars of investment deals with the US. France and Saudi Arabia are co-hosting the gathering between 17 and 20 June in New York. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters "We are urging governments not to participate in the conference, which we view as counterproductive to ongoing, life-saving efforts to end the war in Gaza and free hostages," the cable says, according to Reuters. "The United States opposes any steps that would unilaterally recognise a conjectural Palestinian state, which adds significant legal and political obstacles to the eventual resolution of the conflict and could coerce Israel during a war, thereby supporting its enemies,' it added. France had been lobbying the UK and other European allies to recognise a Palestinian state at the conference. However, Middle East Eye reported in June that the US has warned Britain and France against recognising a Palestinian state at the conference. At the same time, Arab states have been urging them to proceed with the move, sources told MEE. In late May, United Nations member states held consultations in preparation for the conference, during which the Arab Group urged states to recognise Palestinian statehood. The Arab Group said they would measure the success of the conference by whether significant states recognise Palestine, sources in the UK Foreign Office told MEE. Since the 1950s, successive American administrations have stated that their ultimate goal in ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is a two-state solution. Many experts and diplomats have earmarked occupied East Jerusalem, the occupied West Bank and Gaza, which Israel seized from Egypt and Jordan in the 1967 war, as the heartland of a future Palestinian state. But US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News on Tuesday that a Palestinian state in the occupied West Bank was no longer a US policy goal. He said Israel's 'Muslim neighbours' could give up their land to create one. According to the cable, the US said that "unilaterally recognizing a Palestinian state would effectively render Oct. 7 Palestinian Independence Day'. Hamas led an attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, killing around 1,200 people. Israel responded by launching a devastating assault on Gaza that has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children, and reduced the enclave to rubble. The US cable also said Washington was working with Egypt and Qatar to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and free the captives there. "This conference undermines these delicate negotiations and emboldens Hamas at a time when the terrorist group has rejected proposals by the negotiators that Israel has accepted,' it said. The Trump administration pushed Israel to agree to a three-phase ceasefire with Hamas in January. Israel broke that agreement by refusing to begin talks on ending the war permanently and unilaterally resumed attacking Gaza.

Digital Displays on the Rise: META Leads LFD Shift
Digital Displays on the Rise: META Leads LFD Shift

TECHx

time3 hours ago

  • TECHx

Digital Displays on the Rise: META Leads LFD Shift

Home » Tech Market Insights » Digital Displays on the Rise: META Leads LFD Shift Digital Displays surge in META as demand for interactive, high-brightness, and DV-LED screens grows, contrasting Europe's slowdown in the LFD market. This research article, based on the latest market insights provided by CONTEXT, explores the evolving landscape of the Large Format Display (LFD) market in the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa (META). As global economic pressures and technology shifts redefine visual display demand, the META region demonstrates resilience and emerging opportunities in contrast to a notable slowdown in the European market. CONTEXT's data highlights growth drivers such as increasing demand for interactive and high-brightness LFDs, investments in smart cities, and the expansion of Direct View LED applications. This paper contextualizes these regional trends and examines broader factors like semiconductor tariffs and rapid technological evolution shaping the industry's trajectory. The LFD market across the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa (META) is currently undergoing a dynamic period, characterised by both challenges and opportunities. While the META region demonstrates specific areas of growth, the European market provides a contrasting perspective, with a noted slowdown in April. LFD market shows promise in META One area of particular interest in the META region is the Large Format Display (LFD) sector. The LFD industry has experienced some relief regarding US tariffs, although concerns remain about potential future tariffs on semiconductors. Notably, LFD activity picked up in March, moving closer to the performance levels seen in 2024. This resurgence is driven by several key factors: Interactive LFD demand: There's a notable increase in demand for interactive LFDs, fuelled by adoption in educational institutions, boardroom automation, and even religious tourism. This indicates a diversification of LFD applications beyond traditional commercial settings. High brightness LFDs: The need for high brightness LFDs is also on the rise, spurred by advertising requirements and the development of smart cities. As urban centres in the META region invest in digital infrastructure, the demand for displays that can perform in various lighting conditions is expected to grow. Direct view LED momentum: The Direct View LED segment continues to demonstrate solid momentum, albeit with slightly slower growth compared to 2024. Opportunities in entertainment venues and the burgeoning esports scene are contributing to this growth. Türkiye's surging LFD market A standout within the META region is Türkiye, where the LFD market is experiencing a surge in demand for both interactive displays and signage. This highlights the country's investment in digital display technologies across various sectors. European market: April slowdown and key trends While the META region sees growth in LFDs, the European LFD market experienced a slowdown in performance in April. The main factors shaping the market currently are: Continued decline of ASPs : Average Selling Prices (ASPs) for LFDs have seen some significant price drops since the beginning of the year, and this is mainly affecting the DV-LED and Signage markets. : Average Selling Prices (ASPs) for LFDs have seen some significant price drops since the beginning of the year, and this is mainly affecting the DV-LED and Signage markets. Interactive Woes: The end of EDU investment programmes in different countries is having a large impact on the Interactive Board category of LFDs. These displays, which are now a staple for classrooms in many schools and higher education establishments, have seen a -31% decline in April as a result. The end of EDU investment programmes in different countries is having a large impact on the Interactive Board category of LFDs. These displays, which are now a staple for classrooms in many schools and higher education establishments, have seen a -31% decline in April as a result. Tough Comparables: In April 2024 the LFD market grew by 33% YoY. Demand received a boost from preparations for the Olympic games in France and the UEFA Euro in Germany. However, this implies that achieving comparable growth in the second quarter of this year will present a considerable challenge. Broader trends and considerations Several overarching factors influence both the META and European LFD markets: Semiconductor tariffs: The potential impact of US tariffs on semiconductors remains a key concern. Since LFDs rely heavily on these components, any price fluctuations in semiconductors could ripple through the entire supply chain and affect pricing in both regions. Technological evolution: The rapid pace of technological change continues to shape the LFD market. Innovations such as smart glasses have the potential to disrupt traditional display technologies in the long run. Looking ahead The LFD market presents a complex picture, with growth areas in the META region's LFD sector contrasting with a recent slowdown in the European desktop LFD market. Global economic factors, technological advancements, and supply chain considerations will continue to play crucial roles in shaping the industry's trajectory..

US envoy says 'no room' for Palestinian state in West Bank currently
US envoy says 'no room' for Palestinian state in West Bank currently

Dubai Eye

time5 hours ago

  • Dubai Eye

US envoy says 'no room' for Palestinian state in West Bank currently

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has said that Washington does not wholeheartedly back a Palestinian state under the current circumstances. "I don't think so," Huckabee said in an interview with Bloomberg News published on Tuesday, when asked if a Palestinian state remains a goal of US policy. Asked about Huckabee's comments, the White House referred to remarks earlier this year by US President Donald Trump when he proposed a US takeover of Gaza, which was condemned globally by rights groups, Arab states, Palestinians and the UN as a proposal of "ethnic cleansing". The White House also referred to remarks by Trump from last year before he won the 2024 election when he said: "I'm not sure a two-state solution anymore is going to work." Asked whether Huckabee's remarks represented a change in US policy, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment on Tuesday, saying policy-making was a matter for Trump and the White House. "I'm not going to explain them or really comment on them at all. I think he certainly speaks for himself," Bruce told reporters. Huckabee, a former Arkansas governor, has been a vocal supporter of Israel throughout his political career. "Unless there are some significant things that happen that change the culture, there's no room for it," Huckabee was quoted as saying by Bloomberg. Those probably won't happen "in our lifetime," he said. Trump, in his first term, was relatively tepid in his approach to a two-state solution, a longtime pillar of US Middle East policy. Trump has given little sign of where he stands on the issue in his second term. Trump has pursued strongly pro-Israel policies as president and his choice of Huckabee as ambassador signaled that they would continue. The US has for decades backed a two-state solution between the Israelis and the Palestinians that would create a state for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza alongside Israel. The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Hamas fighters attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli allies. US ally Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry, while internally displacing nearly Gaza's entire population and causing a hunger crisis. The assault has also triggered accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies the accusations.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store