Qatar and Turkey join regional Integrated Industrial Partnership
The fifth meeting of the Higher Committee for Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development held in Doha.
The meetings of the Higher Committee announced the accession of Qatar and Turkey to the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development, increasing the number of member states to seven within just three years of the partnership's launch.
This significant addition enhances the strategic development of the partnership, which originated in Abu Dhabi in 2022, and reflects the shared ambition of member countries to improve industrial integration, strengthen cooperation, and build a resilient, competitive, and sustainable economy.
The meeting was attended by several key officials, including: Dr Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Sheikh Faisal Bin Thani Bin Faisal Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry in the State of Qatar; Yarub Falah Al Qudah, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; Lieutenant General Engineer Kamel Al Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport in the Arab Republic of Egypt; Abdulla Bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce in the Kingdom of Bahrain; Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Kingdom of Morocco; and Mehmet Fatih Kaçir, Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Turkey.
The inclusion of Qatar and Turkey marks a pivotal advancement in regional industrial integration. Their accession supports the partnership's objectives for industrial growth and expansion, bringing new momentum due to Qatar's abundant natural resources and technological advancements, as well as Turkey's robust industrial capabilities.
Both countries are recognised for their strengths in various sectors, including manufacturing industries, renewable energy, textiles and ready-made garments, pharmaceutical industries, chemical fertilisers and phosphates, mining and minerals, and food industries.
During the meeting, several agreements were signed, and strategic projects valued at over US$2 billion were announced, aimed at enhancing collaboration among member countries in critical sectors such as metals, pharmaceuticals, and plastic industries. These initiatives also prioritise the development of healthy food industries, biotechnology innovation, and advancements in electrical and high-tech industries.
Key announcements included a raw material supply agreement between Bahrain Steel and Qatar, valued at $1.3 billion. This agreement will facilitate the supply of 5 million metric tons of raw materials over the course of five years.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the UAE's ISC Capital and Bahrain's Peninsula farms to establish a sustainable microalgae production facility in the Kingdom, with an investment of $10 million. This project aims to advance microalgae production technology and provide industrial and medical solutions, aligning with Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030. Furthermore, it is expected to create job opportunities in areas such as research, agriculture, extraction, laboratory work, and production, contributing to the local economy and workforce development.
Another significant announcement involved Egypt's Giza Cable Accessories's plan to establish a new facility in the UAE dedicated to producing cable accessories and electrical connectors, with an investment of nearly US$7 million.
Additional agreements were finalised for the supply of PET plastic containers from Jordan's Exceed Industries and plastic caps from Egypt's Delta El Nile to UAE's Hayatna - National Dairy, each valued at US$10 million. Furthermore, a $15 million agreement was signed for the supply of animal feed from the UAE's National Feed Factory (NFFM) to Qatar's Al Rayyan Horse Essentials.
In the pharmaceutical sector, key agreements included a collaboration between the UAE's Globalpharma and Morocco's Zenith Pharma to manufacture, licence, and transfer technology in areas such as injectable medications, biologics, and treatments for cholesterol and diabetes. This partnership, with an investment exceeding $50 million, aims to strengthen regional pharmaceutical security and enhance the capacity for local production of medical solutions.
To enhance regional investments, the UAE's Mubadala Investment Company has announced the acquisition of two factories – Adwia Pharmaceuticals in Egypt and PHI in Morocco. This move significantly bolsters Mubadala's pharmaceutical investments on both a regional and global scale.
Additionally, a MoU was signed between Morocco's Dolidol and the UAE's Intercoil. This collaboration aims to expand manufacturing capabilities for mattresses and foam production in the UAE.
During the Higher Committee meetings, a comprehensive review of the partnership's achievements was conducted. Omar Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the tripartite higher committee and Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in the UAE, presented a detailed report outlining the outcomes, which included the successful implementation of strategic projects and support for vital sectors across member countries. The meeting also provided updates on ongoing projects and discussed the future work plan, aimed at further enhancing regional cooperation and contributing to sustainable development.
Member countries reviewed their competitive advantages, which include advanced infrastructure, supportive policies, and investment incentives designed for investors. They highlighted promising investment opportunities in strategic sectors, demonstrating the commitment of the partnership's countries to attract industrial investments and create a favourable investment environment that fosters regional economic integration.
Four industrial companies were honoured by the attending ministers for their significant contributions in supporting the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development: The UAE's Global Pharma and Jordan's Savvy Pharma were recognised for their outstanding efforts in pharmaceutical research and development among member countries. Emirates Steel and Bahrain Steel were acknowledged for their essential role in the supply of raw materials, as agreed in the previous Higher Committee meeting held in Bahrain in January 2024.
Dr. Al Jaber began his speech by extending greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and conveying his wishes for continued success in achieving the shared goals of the partnership's countries. He emphasised that this partnership embodies a unified vision focused on enhancing sustainable economic development and strengthening complementary relations among member countries by leveraging their competitive advantages and the significant potential of the partnership.
Dr Al Jaber also expressed his gratitude to Qatar for hosting the fifth Higher Committee meeting and welcomed the inclusion of Qatar and Türkiye into the partnership, highlighting their roles in advancing the collective goals of the initiative.
Dr. Al Jaber said, 'We welcome the inclusion of Qatar and Türkiye in the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development, and we are confident that this step will bolster the common interests of all members, especially considering the industrial and economic standing of both countries. Their extensive track record of success across various sectors, particularly in the industrial field, plays a crucial role in supporting investment opportunities both regionally and globally.'
He also expressed gratitude to the Executive Committee and the working teams from the member countries for their dedicated efforts in overseeing the implementation of work plans, reviewing the latest project developments, and organising workshops for the private sector. He noted that these efforts have led to tangible progress in achieving the partnership's objectives and fostering cooperation among member countries.
Dr. Al Jaber added, 'The Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development is a remarkable success story that began in Abu Dhabi in May 2022. It has already transformed several agreements signed during previous meetings into tangible projects that we are now witnessing come to fruition. We are pleased to observe today the announcement of several new projects and agreements in key priority sectors, valued at over US$2 billion.'
He emphasised that these projects contribute to the integration of expertise and capabilities among the partnership's countries, helping to build a sustainable common industrial base by leveraging each country's competitive advantages.
Furthermore, these initiatives support supply chain resilience, reduce production costs, foster research and development, enhance the qualification of national competencies, and create thousands of job opportunities. Ultimately, they contribute to achieving the strategic goals of the partnership while fostering industrial growth and regional cooperation.
Sheikh Al Thani said, 'The Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic development represents a strategic step towards enhancing industrial collaboration and integration among our countries by aligning key industrial sectors and establishing joint initiatives that contribute to improving the competitiveness and sustainability of the industrial sector.'
He added, 'Qatar joining the partnership is a significant leap that reflects our strong commitment to enhancing industrial cooperation within the region. We are confident that this partnership will play a fundamental role in supporting sustainable development efforts by providing outstanding investment opportunities and fostering cooperation within the private sector.
Moreover, Qatar's substantial economic potential and smart infrastructure will be instrumental in achieving the partnership's objectives and accelerating economic growth.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Post
3 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Lifestyle Mobility Redefines UAE Auto Ambitions
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai UAE's car market is undergoing a fundamental shift as lifestyle-driven mobility rises to prominence, reshaping consumer choices from metal to experience. A surge in preference for digitally enabled, subscription-based, and autonomous transportation is aligning with the emirates' drive for sustainable, high-tech urban living. Automakers and transport authorities are adapting, marking a new era for mobility in the region. At the forefront is the uptake of connected and autonomous vehicles. A 2024 Astute Analytica report found that the UAE invested US $500 million in autonomous and connected vehicle infrastructure, and government surveys show that nearly 60 per cent of residents are open to self-driving cars once available . Dubai aims for 25 per cent of its transport network to operate autonomously by 2030, while Abu Dhabi is piloting robotaxis under a combined Dubai Roads and Transport Authority and DP World initiative . Chinese mobility pioneer WeRide has commenced fully driverless robotaxi trials in Abu Dhabi and holds significant UAE licences, further cementing the country's status as a regional testbed . ADVERTISEMENT Parallel to autonomy, digital car buying and subscription services are gaining ground. A global study by Arthur D. Little reports that UAE has the highest percentage worldwide of buyers willing to complete vehicle purchases entirely online, with 53 per cent preferring full digital transactions . It also notes more than half of car buyers intend to purchase hybrid or electric models for their next car . Major brands such as Jaguar‑Land Rover, Audi and Volvo have launched subscription models allowing flexible short‑term access to vehicles, reflecting a deeper shift from ownership to access . Luxury meets lifestyle in a market defined by adventure and affluence. The UAE's love for off‑road capable SUVs—icons like Land Rover, Toyota Land Cruiser and Mercedes G‑Class—remains strong, supported by driving culture and desert heritage . At the same time, social media has amplified the aspirational value of high‑performance and bespoke vehicles, prompting services offering vehicle customisation and luxury rentals to expand . Despite their prestige, sustainable mobility options are advancing steadily. Government plans aim for EVs to account for 10 per cent of all vehicles by 2030; Dubai Electricity and Water Authority intends to install 1,000 public charging points by 2025 . Financial incentives including free parking and toll exemptions support uptake. While less than 15 per cent of buyers currently prefer full battery‑electric vehicles , more than 50 per cent plan to choose hybrid or electric options next . Shared mobility and micro‑mobility solutions are gaining traction among urban dwellers. The UAE's ride‑hailing market grew to US $1.3 billion in 2023, and car‑sharing usage surged by 30 per cent to over 200,000 subscribers . Platforms like Careem, ekar and others expand convenient access while supporting sustainability goals . Pre‑owned and rental markets also reflect shifting lifestyle demands. The luxury car rental segment caters to business travellers and experience‑seeking residents, accounting for over half of regional luxury rentals . Certified pre‑owned programmes and digital platforms make premium vehicles accessible and promote circular economy models . ADVERTISEMENT Industry participants are racing to adapt. Six major dealers—including Al Futtaim Motors and Al Habtoor—control more than 62 per cent of the auto market by offering hybrid and electric models, digital sales funnels, and after‑sales personalisation services . Additionally, more than 80 per cent of UAE and KSA consumers now value in‑car digital services and are willing to share data for personalised experiences . Strategic foreign investment continues to flow. In 2024, DP World handled a record 1.3 million vehicles, up 53 per cent year‑on‑year. China led automotive investments region‑wide, with 27 projects worth US $8 billion, generating 20,000 jobs . The UAE attracted 145 automotive projects valued at US $22 billion, solidifying its regional industry leadership . Air mobility is emerging as a bold frontier. Authorities, including the General Civil Aviation Authority and Technology Innovation Institute, are mapping aerial corridors for air taxis and drones with a view to commercial roll‑out by 2026. Vertiports are under construction as Dubai aims to launch urban air taxi operations in early 2026 . Collaborations with global developers such as Volocopter and Joby Aviation underscore UAE's intent to lead advanced mobility innovation. Demographic and behavioural trends are shifting expectations. UAE's younger, tech‑savvy population demands multimodal transport, sustainable choices, and flexible ownership. European research shows Gen Z and millennials prefer compact, shared, and electric vehicles, and lease options tied to services—mirroring emerging patterns in the Emirates . The convergence of digital retail, in‑car connectivity, autonomous capabilities and lifestyle choices is now the defining feature of the market. That convergence gives rise to dynamic policy alignment and infrastructure development. Dubai's Autonomous Transportation Strategy ambitions to ease congestion and strengthen economic diversification, while public‑private partnerships are building the ecosystem for AI‑enabled transport . The transformation is clear: the UAE auto sector is evolving from a conventional showroom‑focused industry to an experiential mobility ecosystem. Consumers expect seamless digital transactions, autonomous options, flexible subscriptions, and elevated experiences. Governments and businesses are aligning investment and strategy to meet these expectations, fusing luxury with sustainability, and individual desire with urban resilience. As the 2030 horizon approaches, next‑generation mobility is no longer an aspiration but a reality rolling on UAE roads, in the air, and on digital platforms—heralding a new age for the Gulf's automotive narrative.
Al Etihad
15 hours ago
- Al Etihad
China vice premier to meet US delegation for trade talks: Beijing
7 June 2025 23:12 Beijing (AFP)Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will meet a US delegation for talks next week in Britain, Beijing announced on Saturday amid a fragile truce in the trade dispute between the two will visit the United Kingdom from June 8 to 13 at the invitation of the British government, China's foreign ministry said in a said He and American representatives will co-chair the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation President Donald Trump had already announced on Friday that a new round of trade talks with China would kick off in London beginning Monday, after he spoke by phone with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in a bid to end a bitter battle over posted on his Truth Social platform that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer would meet the Chinese discussions will mark the second round of such negotiations between the world's two biggest economies since Trump launched his trade war shortly after returning to the White House in January.A first meeting, held in mid-May in Geneva, brought a pause to the US-China trade Thursday the Republican president finally discussed the issues with Xi for the first time since the trade tensions soared, assuring that the conversation had been positive. Xi for his part told Trump the two should "correct the course" of bilateral relations, according to remarks quoted by official Chinese media.
Gulf Today
18 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Russia hits 6 Ukraine regions in one of largest aerial attacks
Russia bombarded six regions of Ukraine in one of its largest aerial attacks of the three-year war, Ukrainian officials said on Friday. The nighttime assault lasted for hours and killed three emergency responders in the capital Kyiv as well as another person in a northwestern city, according to authorities. The barrage included 407 drones and 44 ballistic and cruise missiles, Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said. Ukrainian forces said they shot down about 30 of the cruise missiles and up to 200 of the drones. Some 50 Ukrainian civilians were injured across the country, emergency services said. The latest Russian attack came hours after US President Donald Trump said it might be better to let Ukraine and Russia 'fight for a while' before pulling them apart and pursuing peace. Trump's comments were a remarkable detour from his often-stated appeals to stop the war and signaled he may be giving up on recent peace efforts. Ukrainian cities have come under regular bombardment since Russia invaded its neighbor in February 2022. The attacks have killed more than 12,000 civilians, according to the United Nations. 'Russia doesn`t change its stripes,' Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Zelensky, as well as the Ukrainian Interior Ministry and the general prosecutor's office, said three emergency workers were killed in Kyiv while responding to the Russian strikes. 'They were working under fire to help people,' the Interior Ministry said in a statement. The war has continued unabated even as a US-led diplomatic push for a settlement has brought two rounds of direct peace talks between delegations from Russia and Ukraine. The negotiations delivered no significant breakthroughs, however, and the sides remain far apart on their terms for an end to the fighting. Ukraine has offered an unconditional 30-day ceasefire and a meeting between Zelensky and Russian leader Vladimir Putin to break the deadlock. But the Kremlin has effectively rejected a truce and hasn't budged from its demands. 'The Kremlin continues efforts to falsely portray Russia as willing to engage in good-faith negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, despite Russia's repeated refusal to offer any concessions,' the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said late on Thursday. Putin said in a phone call with Trump earlier this week that he would respond to Ukraine's daring long-range attack on Russian air bases on Sunday. Russia's Defence Ministry claimed it had aimed at Ukrainian military targets with 'long-range precision weapons' and successfully struck arms depots, drone factories and repair facilities, among other targets. Putin, who denounced the Ukrainian government as 'terrorist' after the weekend attacks on Russian air bases and railway bombings that Moscow blamed on Ukraine, promised a response to the air base assault. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that 'all that is being done by our military daily is a response to the actions by' Ukraine. Friday's barrage fits into a pattern of Russian attacks throughout the war. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the attacks demonstrated key differences between Russia and Ukraine. 'The difference ... is that Ukraine hits legitimate military targets-such as aircraft equipped to bomb our children. Russia targets residential areas, civilians, and critical infrastructure,' Sybiha wrote on X. 'Putting Ukraine and Russia on equal footing is unacceptable.' In Russia, air defences shot down 10 Ukrainian drones heading toward the capital early on Friday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said. Flights at Moscow airports were temporarily suspended during the night as a precaution. Ukrainian drones also targeted three other regions of Russia, authorities said, damaging apartment buildings and industrial plants. Three people were injured, officials said. Russia's Defence Ministry said that air defences downed 174 Ukrainian drones over 13 regions early on Friday. It added that three Ukrainian Neptune missiles were also shot down over the Black Sea. Ukraine struck airfields and other military targets in Russia, such as fuel storage tanks and transport hubs, the Ukrainian General Staff said. Associated Press
