UAE and China: Four Decades of Economic and Cultural Partnership

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library hosted the second edition of the UAE-China Forum, in partnership with the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy and Islamic Ornamentation, and the Chinese Embassy in the UAE. The forum was held as part of the UAE's 40th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China.

His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, said: “Hosting the second edition of the UAE-China Forum comes as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. This confirms the UAE's commitment to strengthening cultural and intellectual ties with the People's Republic of China.”

Al Murr continued: “Since its opening, we have been keen on making the library a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and enjoyment of all art forms. The Arab and Chinese cultures share many similarities, with each of them having a deep historical heritage spanning thousands of years. This gives thought and art a unique cultural depth.”

Al Murr noted: “Previously, most of our cultural and intellectual journeys were directed towards Europe. However, the remarkable Chinese success that began about 30 years ago, with impressive achievements in technology, industry, and creativity, prompted the world to reconsider China as a source of civilisational and cultural inspiration. Through our visits to Chinese cities and our exploration of their rich history, we discovered tremendous artistic wealth and found many similarities with Arab culture, particularly in calligraphy. Just as Arabs and Muslims excel in Arabic calligraphy, the Chinese consider calligraphy a refined art with its own symbolism and status. It has developed significantly among them as a result of the expansion of their cultural markets. This shared appreciation for the art of calligraphy contributes to the rapprochement between the two cultures. The stronger the cooperation between the UAE and China, the greater our mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures, opening up new horizons for benefiting from the artistic achievements of both countries.”

Al Murr concluded: “We must focus on translating Chinese books and books written in European languages ​​into Arabic, to open broader horizons for Arab intellectuals and calligraphy enthusiasts. We also hope that our organisations contribute to supporting the translation of Arabic works into Chinese, enhancing cultural and artistic understanding between the two nations.”

Khalid Al Jallaf, Chairman of the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy, said: “As part of the UAE’s vision for economic growth and building intellectual and cultural partnerships, and especially between the UAE and China. This year, the forum edition highlights culture and the arts as key tools for promoting cultural dialogue and communication.”

Al Jallaf added: “Cultural relations with China are a vital extension of the state's strategy, which is based on fostering bridges of understanding with nations and promoting tolerance and transparency.”

The UAE-China Forum will feature a series of events that reflect the depth of cultural cooperation between the two countries. These events include art exhibitions, workshops, and seminars aimed at promoting knowledge and artistic exchange, and allowing participants to explore Arabic calligraphy and ornament design.

The UAE-China relations represent multifaceted cooperation, having witnessed remarkable development in various fields since their establishment four decades ago, particularly in culture and art. Both sides have been committed to strengthening this cooperation through joint agreements and initiatives that reflect a comprehensive strategic partnership based on mutual respect and cultural openness.

In recent years, cultural exchange has emerged as one of the most prominent convergences between the two countries. Both countries repeatedly organised art exhibitions, literary festivals, and heritage events to bolster human communication and present inspiring models of collaboration between civilisations. This forum supports the UAE's vision to promote cultural diplomacy as a tool for positive influence, build bridges of communication with nations, and reinforce its position as a global hub for dialogue and openness.