COLOMBO :The Establishment of the Union
On December 2, 1971, the United Arab Emirates was officially established, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. The national flag was raised, symbolizing unity and sovereignty, and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was elected as the first President of the State, with Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum as Vice President. On December 9, 1971, the first Council of Ministers was formed, and UAE joined the United Nations in the same year, solidifying its presence on the global stage.
International Relations and Partnerships
UAE maintains a robust diplomatic network, with 103 embassies, 20 consulates, 4 permanent missions, and 77 non-resident embassies worldwide, underscoring its commitment to international engagement. The nation firmly believes in international cooperation and actively seeks strategic partnerships that foster mutual benefits. Today, UAE renews its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with friendly nations and supporting international efforts to achieve peace, stability, and sustainable development.
UAE continues to strengthen its position as one of the most prominent countries contributing to efforts to address the most important issues and developments on the international scene and advance comprehensive development and achieve prosperity for all peoples of the world. Over the past years, UAE’s efforts have been a decisive factor in issuing and adopting many historic international resolutions and draft resolutions whose positive impact extends to include all peoples of the world, regardless of their religious, ethnic and cultural affiliations. The role of UAE in the international relations system is witnessing continuous development thanks to the distinguished relations it has with most countries of the world, in addition to its strong and effective presence in many international organizations and bodies.
UAE-Sri Lanka Relations: A Flourishing Partnership
The relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE is marked by continued growth and strengthening cooperation. This bilateral partnership, founded on mutual respect, has expanded across various sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The UAE is a leading source of foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka and a major trading partner in the Middle East. Despite economic challenges, UAE investors remain interested in Sri Lanka’s investment opportunities. Joint ventures, such as the establishment of graphene pre-processing facilities, and research collaborations, like the MoU between LOLC Advanced Technologies and Khalifa University, highlight the commitment to economic cooperation. Both countries are on the verge of signing an agreement on the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments, which will further boost and encourage foreign investments.
UAE is Sri Lanka’s top trading partner in the Middle East. Globally, it is the 3rd import origin and 6th export destination for Sri Lanka. Bilateral trade reached over US$1.9 billion in 2023, a 48% increase from the previous year, demonstrating the resilience and potential of the partnership. Exports to UAE have increased by 3.26% in 2023, while imports from UAE have increased by 64.44% when compared to the year 2022. To further enhance bilateral cooperation, UAE and Sri Lanka will be signing MoUs on Enhancing Investment and Business Opportunities and the Establishment of a Joint Business Council in the near future.
UAE-Sri Lanka Bilateral Trade (All values in USD Million)
Year
Exports
Imports
Trade Balance
Total Trade
2018
1,712.47
289.63
1,422.8
2,002.1
2019
1,545.75
274.95
1,270.8
1,820.7
2020
869.01
188.9
680.11
1,057.91
2021
1,315.62
282.84
1,032.8
1,598.46
2022
G950.36
345.82
604.54
1,296.18
2023
1,562.81
357.09
1,205.7
1,919.9
Beyond economic ties, there is a growing bond between the people of both nations. The contributions of the Sri Lankan community in the UAE, estimated to be one of the highest in number in the Middle East, are invaluable, and strong air and freight links facilitate connection and exchange. The strong inflow of remittances from Sri Lankan expatriates in the UAE, reaching $166.2 million in the first half of this year, reflecting a notable 16.3% increase compared to the same period last year, further underscores the economic significance of the relationship.
Collaboration in travel and tourism is also expanding, with increased passenger flights strengthening connectivity and promoting Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. UAE national airlines are the largest contributors to tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka. Currently, 17 daily flights are operated between the two countries, with the prospect of increasing in future. The surge in UAE tourist arrivals, by nearly 50% year-on-year, is also a testament to the progress in this sector.
Both countries are committed to expanding cooperation through mutual visits, agreements and MoUs, and the convening of the Joint Committee. There is particular interest in strengthening cooperation in renewable energy, ports development, tourism and agriculture to support Sri Lanka’s sustainable development.
Vision for the Future
In celebrating the 53rd National Day, UAE looks to the future with confidence and determination under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State. “We the UAE 2031” represents a visionary national action plan that will guide UAE’s development journey for the next decade, focusing on social, economic, investment, and development aspects. Through this vision, the country aims to enhance its position as a global partner and an attractive and influential economic center. UAE seeks to be a global center for sustainable development and innovation and an effective contributor to international efforts to address contemporary challenges such as climate change and enhancing food security.
UAE Achievements
UAE has achieved remarkable milestones at local, regional, and international levels, from strengthening the national economy and diversifying its sources to achieving a leading position in vital sectors such as technology, space, clean energy, and culture.
Non-oil trade by geographic scope:
Region
Trade Volume (in US dollars)
Arab countries, the Cooperation Council, the Gulf States, the Republic of Turkey, and the Islamic Republic of Iran
137.77 billion
North and South America
56 billion
Europe
115 billion
Sub-Saharan Africa
63.4 billion
Asia and the Pacific
427 billion
UAE’s most notable achievements in the economic sector and international cooperation:
Full membership in the BRICS group.
Fifth participation in the G20.
Joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a sectoral dialogue partner.
Successful advocacy campaigns to sign the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA).
Getting off the “grey list” of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) within two years, in addition to completing a 59-item action plan.
The National Investment Strategy 2031, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, crowned a package of major initiatives. The strategy aims to double cumulative foreign direct investment between 2025 and 2031 to about 30% of the volume of investments in the country, which currently stands at 15%, and reach AED 1.3 trillion, to support achieving the desired economic growth. It also aims to increase the cumulative foreign direct investment balance threefold to reach AED 2.2 trillion in 2031.
Bridges of Economic Partnerships
UAE stresses in all forums, especially during UN Security Council meetings, the need to prioritize economic prosperity and relations between peoples, support pluralism and partnerships, and enhance international cooperation. UAE’s foreign policy focuses on supporting long-term economic prosperity and adopts strategies that stimulate economic diversification, as the country works to build a knowledge-based and diversified economy enhanced by scientific and technological progress.
UAE has an advanced methodology and system for managing its participation in multilateral institutions and groups, within clear foundations whose essence is to promote global peace, stability, and prosperity. UAE believes that the future of regional security depends on strong multilateral partnerships and a shared commitment to achieving stability and prosperity through peaceful political and economic means.
To support this approach, the country has concluded Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with strategic partners as part of a long-term strategy in its drive to diversify the economy and develop strong international partnerships through trade, industry and investment. To date, 11 agreements have been concluded, 6 of which have entered into force, and 8 have been completed for negotiation. The CEPAs will continue to pave the way for more opportunities for the people of the region and open the door to the vital economic development of the Middle East. These agreements are one way to accelerate and enhance trade between countries and increase the ease of doing business across the region, and in other markets such as Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America.
UAE’s commitment to tolerance and coexistence
Coexistence is a fundamental pillar in the fabric of Emirati society, as the country embraces more than 200 nationalities in harmony and concord, where different cultures coexist in a safe and prosperous environment. UAE occupies a leading position globally and represents a bridge of communication, peace, and tolerance between peoples and cultures.
Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power
UAE was founded on the values of tolerance and peace instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. His strategy was to demonstrate friendship towards all cultures and peoples and work towards mutually beneficial cooperation with all countries to achieve global stability. UAE continued to strengthen its position as a beacon of tolerance through its participation in cultural events and strengthened its cooperation with international organizations such as UNESCO to preserve the world’s cultural heritage and occupied advanced positions in global soft power indicators.
UAE entered the list of the top ten countries in the Global Soft Power Index for the year 2023 for the first time, as its position on the general index rose from 15th in 2022 to 10th in 2023, making it, with this ambitious leap, the only Arab and Middle Eastern country to secure a place in the top ten list.
Sustainability and Climate Diplomacy
UAE has made significant achievements in sustainability, advancing to 18th place globally in the “Investment in Green Energy and Clean Technology” index. Through a sustainable vision led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, UAE affirms its commitment to accelerating climate action, building a climate-resilient economy, and providing a global model for international cooperation on climate issues.
The extension of the “Year of Sustainability” in UAE to include 2024 confirms the country’s commitment to achieving sustainable development and the importance of adopting sustainable lifestyles to preserve our environmental heritage for future generations. In implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, UAE launched the “Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative” to address the urgent global challenge of water scarcity. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance and seriousness of the water scarcity crisis at the international level, in addition to accelerating the development of innovative technological solutions to address it.
UAE continued its efforts in climate action through key partnerships and agreements aimed at achieving global sustainability goals, with a focus on the outcomes of COP28, most notably the historic “UAE Consensus” between 198 parties, which paved the way for a new phase of climate action, by raising and stimulating more than 85 billion in financing and launching 11 pledges and declarations that contribute to an ambitious climate action plan to preserve the possibility of avoiding the rise in global temperature exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius.
UAE’s pivotal role in global efforts aimed at reducing the repercussions of climate change at the regional and international levels constitutes a new impetus to strengthen the global system towards implementing pledges and commitments related to climate change issues and supporting energy security.
During the COP29 conference in Baku, UAE sought to provide an experience that highlights its strategies to reduce carbon emissions and enhance the efficiency of the use of natural resources. It also showcased its major projects in the field of clean energy, such as the “Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park” and the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, which are considered among the largest initiatives in the region. This active participation in COP29 reflects UAE’s firm commitment to climate issues and sustainable development.
UAE aims to build a climate−resilient economy, which is an essential part of UAE’s strategic vision for climate neutrality by 2050. This vision includes reducing dependence on fossil fuels, increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, supporting sustainable infrastructure, and encouraging investments in innovation and the environment.
UN Security Council
UAE concluded its successful membership of the UN Security Council for the period 2022-2023, where it sought to fulfill its commitments during its term, which included securing peace, promoting inclusiveness, building resilience, and stimulating innovation. UAE maintained its belief in diplomacy, consensus, and building bridges and promoted the values of tolerance and coexistence and championed the Palestinian cause and Arab issues.
UAE held the presidency of the Council in March 2022, and in June 2023, and prioritized its work with the values of human fraternity, climate change, peace and security, and cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. On June 15, 2023: The UN Security Council adopted a historic resolution co-authored by UAE and the United Kingdom on tolerance, international peace and security, which recognizes for the first time that hate speech and extremism can lead to the spread of this disease, its escalation, and the recurrence of conflicts in the world.
On November 15, 2023: The intensive efforts and successful communications undertaken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs led to the Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2712 as well as Resolution 2720, which calls for concrete steps to increase the flow of humanitarian aid that the Palestinians desperately need and to protect UN staff and humanitarian workers on the ground in the Gaza Strip.
Human Rights
UAE is strongly committed to human rights and building on its progress in this area. Over the next 50 years, UAE will continue to strengthen its efforts to maintain its position as one of the best countries in the world to live and work, based on its forward-looking vision, progressive legal reform, and commitment to social and cultural diversity. UAE has signed multiple human rights treaties and is committed to working closely with the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the United Nations Secretariat to promote and protect human rights worldwide.
UAE has adopted numerous pieces of legislation between 2019 and 2022 to strengthen human rights protections, including establishing the National Human Rights Committee to oversee the implementation of the National Human Rights Plan. UAE government invests its energies in updating laws and practices that reflect pluralism while respecting its heritage and traditions. The country has made significant progress on a number of social issues, such as promoting gender balance, women’s economic empowerment, and introducing a new family law for non-Muslims.
UAE is fully committed to promoting women’s rights, based on its belief that empowering them is essential to developing a modern and advanced society. Women in UAE participate equally in civil, economic and political life, and strategies in place in the country enhance the role of women in peace and security through several international initiatives, such as the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Women, Peace and Security Initiative, which qualifies women to participate in peacekeeping missions.
Cooperation and diplomacy in crises, humanitarian and development aid
UAE has emerged as one of the most efficient countries in responding to global humanitarian crises, such as confronting the repercussions of conflicts and natural disasters. Over the years, it has been at the forefront of the list of the most prominent development partners worldwide, topping the list of countries in terms of the percentage of official development assistance to their gross national income.
Since 1971, humanitarian aid has reached 206 countries on 6 continents, covering 25 sectors, with a total of AED 358 billion (US$ 97 billion). Emirati diplomacy has achieved success in nine prisoner exchanges between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Ukraine, which included 2,184 prisoners, reflecting the trust that UAE enjoys as a reliable mediator for both parties and their appreciation for its role in supporting the diplomatic path to resolve the crisis between the two countries.
Gaza
UAE continues to provide urgent humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, demonstrating its commitment to the Palestinian people. UAE is at the forefront of countries providing humanitarian, relief, and medical aid to the population in Gaza.
UAE’s “Gallant Knight 3” operations have transported about 46,279 tons of relief supplies to Gaza via flights, airdrops, trucks, and ships. Medical care has been provided to 977 wounded and sick people from Gaza in UAE hospitals. UAE has also established two hospitals in Gaza: a field hospital in southern Gaza and a floating hospital off the coast of Arish. Furthermore, 6 desalination plants have been established to provide fresh water to over 600,000 people.
UAE will continue to work with the United Nations and international partners to support efforts to alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza and ensure the flow of aid. UAE has made diligent efforts to cease fire and de-escalate the situation and welcomed the adoption of Security Council Resolutions 2712 and 2720 to facilitate humanitarian aid and protect civilians.
Lebanon
In response to the difficult humanitarian conditions in Lebanon, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, “may God protect him”, ordered an urgent relief aid package worth 100 million US dollars to our brothers in Lebanon. His Highness also ordered the provision of urgent aid worth 30 million dollars to the Lebanese refugees in the Syrian Arab Republic. On October 4, UAE launched the “Emirates with You, Lebanon” campaign to support our Lebanese brothers. Several relief aircraft were sent carrying 375 tons of medical, food, relief supplies and shelter equipment.
Sudan
In response to the directives of the wise leadership, UAE launched an air bridge with Sudan and neighboring Chad to provide all forms of support and assistance to our Sudanese brothers. Since the beginning of the crisis, UAE has provided $240.25 million to support the humanitarian response (bringing the total value of UAE aid provided to the Sudanese people between 2014 and 2024 to more than $3.5 billion), in addition to 10,000 tons of food and medical supplies and other relief materials, through the operation of 159 aircraft in addition to a ship carrying about 1,000 tons of urgent relief supplies. UAE has built two field hospitals near the Chadian-Sudanese border to provide treatment to Sudanese refugees fleeing the conflict as well as Chadian citizens seeking medical treatment, especially the vulnerable such as the sick, the wounded, children, the elderly and women.
Investing in Future Technology
UAE believes that the future belongs to innovation and technology, so the country has begun to develop partnerships at the international level to enhance cooperation in future sectors, such as artificial intelligence and advanced technology. UAE’s vision is based on making the country a global hub for investment and economic innovation. This includes encouraging a comprehensive ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship and establishing advanced laboratories for emerging economic opportunities. Our strategies also focus on diversity, enhanced by scientific and technological progress. UAE’s approach to artificial intelligence – supported by strong national work and strategic partnerships – confirms a clear commitment to becoming a leading partner in this technological field.
National Vision and Innovation in Consular Diplomacy
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has always embodied the national vision of the wise leadership, a vision that combines traditional diplomacy with innovative consular services to ensure the best care for the country’s citizens while they are abroad. In 2024, the first smart mission in the Republic of Korea marked a turning point in providing consular services by employing artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, reflecting the vision of the leadership that sees people at the center of all initiatives. UAE’s consular diplomacy is an innovative model that reflects the vision of the wise leadership in providing proactive and integrated services to its citizens, in line with the goals of “We the UAE 2031” and “UAE Centennial 2071”. These efforts reflect the country’s commitment to achieving global leadership in smart and sustainable government work and placing people at the core of all its policies, within the framework of its vision to build a prosperous future that enhances UAE’s position as a beacon of progress and innovation.
