Sharjah: The Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah recently hosted a high-level delegation from Shandong Province, China, led by Li Hong, Deputy Director-General of the Shandong Provincial Foreign Affairs Office. The visit aimed at bolstering institutional cooperation across various sectors and activating the outcomes of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Sharjah and Shandong in June 2024.
According to Emirates News Agency, the delegation was received by Sheikh Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of the DGR. Both parties discussed prospects for joint cooperation and partnerships that align with Sharjah's stature as a hub for international relations and cultural dialogue. The visit included a series of field visits and meetings with entities in Sharjah to explore cooperation opportunities across governmental, economic, cultural, tourism, and academic sectors.
Sheikh Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi commented on the visit, emphasizing Sharjah's commitment to strengthening international partnerships and exploring new avenues for sustainable collaboration. He highlighted the importance of enhancing institutional relations across multiple sectors as a key driver of sustainable development through expertise and knowledge exchange.
On the cultural front, the delegation visited the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA), where discussions focused on cultural cooperation between Shandong and SMA. Both parties explored shared interests in research exchange, joint cultural programs, and community exchange. The meeting concluded with an invitation for SMA to participate in a cultural festival in Shandong, marking the opening of the Confucius Institute in May 2026.
In support of tourism cooperation, the Chinese delegates met with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), where Sharjah's tourism assets and cooperation opportunities were showcased. The visit also included a meeting with the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), where bilateral economic relations and the role of industrial and commercial sectors were discussed.
Fahad Ahmed Al Khamiri, Director of SEDD, welcomed the delegation and commended the growing relations between the UAE and China, particularly in the investment and economic sectors. He highlighted Sharjah's attractive business environment and the innovative services offered to investors and the business community.
The delegation also visited the University of Sharjah to explore academic relations. Discussions centered on academic and research cooperation, student exchanges, and language programs. Dr. Issam Al-Din Ibrahim Ajami, Chancellor of the University, affirmed the university's strong ties with Chinese academic institutions and expressed interest in advancing these partnerships.
The visit concluded with a tour of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, where the delegation learned about the institute's programs in safeguarding cultural heritage. An outdoor heritage session was held, showcasing traditional Emirati food and reflecting Sharjah's cultural identity.
The visit of the Shandong Province delegation highlights Sharjah's dedication to strengthening international partnerships and expanding cooperation globally, in line with its cultural vision and commitment to institutional diplomacy.
Source: Emirates News Agency