Thani Al-Zeyoudi: Africa is pivotal to the world’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable economy

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, stressed the importance of trade with the countries of the African continent, as the countries of the continent have a vibrant, promising economy rich in opportunities in a high-growth region. He added that there is a common will to advance relations with Africa to new levels of partnership and economic growth. Joint venture, by opening new areas for partnerships and joint projects between the business communities on both sides, while at the same time providing more new opportunities for small and medium-sized companies.
Al-Zeyoudi said, during a conference held yesterday in Dubai on sustainable trade in Africa under the slogan “Transforming African Trade for Climate Adaptation and Sustainable Development,” that platforms such as sustainable trade in Africa help advance sustainability measures and enhance cooperation.
He added: “Africa is a continent that will be increasingly pivotal to the world’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable economy, possessing the natural resources, talent and commercial connectivity to develop and distribute green products and services. Supporting Africa’s ability to develop renewable energy sources, extract required minerals, and connect its producers to supply chains must be considered a development priority.” “Platforms like Sustainable Trade in Africa are an important driver of stakeholder collaboration in these efforts, enabling investment in strategically important sectors that can enhance Africa’s economic resilience and independence – and support global economic transformation.”
During the forum, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted cost-effective logistics solutions from Africa and the importance of sustainability in trade between African countries, as the Dubai Ports World Group (DP World) follows the development goals approach. The same one that the continent of Africa seeks, and this is an economic vision that will stimulate the establishment of promising partnerships.
Walid Hareb Al Falahi, CEO of Emirates Trade Centre, said: “The enormous potential across various sectors in Africa knows no bounds as pioneering initiatives like Sustainable Trade in Africa play a crucial role, fostering new perspectives with every endeavour. Reflecting on a 25-year journey. “Years as CEO of Dubai Consulting and Emirates Mall demonstrate the realization of Africa’s untapped potential as a beacon for visionary investors. As we move forward, our commitment extends to continued innovation and significant contributions to the upcoming COP29 and UNGA79.”
Wamkele Myeni, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, said: “Our continent is progressing, not only in natural resources but in green trade and various sustainable practices. Together, we contribute to preserving our planet for future generations.”
Professor Benedict Oramah, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export Bank, said: I congratulate Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, and the government of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Conference of the Parties and putting things that matter to Africa on its agenda. The Conference stands Sustainable Trade in Africa as a pivotal initiative aims to strike a delicate balance between preserving our world and striving for trade and economic development, especially in less affluent economies such as those in Africa. Striking this balance is crucial to avoiding the difficult choice between securing the planet for the future and ensuring basic livelihoods today. I commend our valued partners, Waleed Hareb Al Falahi, CEO of the UAE Center and Dubai Consulting, as well as Wamkele Myeni from the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, for their cooperation in organizing this important event.
The event succeeded in uniting influencers in this region, experts and stakeholders, including Professor Benedict Oke Oramah, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afrexim Bank; African Export Bank and His Excellency Nardo Bekele Thomas, CEO, New Partnership for Africa’s Development; And prominent speakers such as Dr. James Mwangi, Group Managing Director and Group CEO of Equity Holdings; Solomon Quaynor, Vice President – Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, African Development Bank; Shaka Kariuki, Co-CEO and Chief Investment Officer, Koraku Capital Management; Youssef Daya, Director of Trade Relations and Policy of the African Union/African Export Bank.