Results for: Economic cooperation

The 10th Ministerial Conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum is set to mark a new milestone in the relationship between China and Arab countries. With the attendance of five Arab heads of state and a keynote speech from President Xi Jinping, the conference will focus on strengthening cooperation in key areas such as technological innovation, industrial transformation, green and low-carbon development, and infrastructure. The meeting will also review the achievements of China-Arab cooperation over the past 20 years and outline a blueprint for future collaboration.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA) and France have taken a significant step towards enhanced economic cooperation at a major conference in Paris, attracting over 400 representatives from French industrial and commercial circles. The conference highlighted the GBA’s growing prominence as a global economic powerhouse and its potential as an entry point for foreign companies seeking to establish themselves in the Chinese market. The event yielded concrete results, with preliminary figures indicating the securing of 36 bilateral investment and trade cooperation projects between France and the GBA, representing a combined value of 3.22 billion USD.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Europe (France) Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference was held in Paris on May 24th, 2024. Over 400 delegates from various sectors of the French business community participated in the event. The conference focused on strengthening economic and trade cooperation between the Greater Bay Area and France, and resulted in the signing of 36 bilateral investment and trade projects valued at $3.22 billion USD.

Talks are underway between Thailand and the European Union (EU) for a free trade agreement that could reshape bilateral trade and boost economic cooperation. This potential agreement would cover areas such as business, services, and supply chains, with bilateral trade reportedly reaching nearly one billion euros on a weekly basis. The proposed agreement could also include comprehensive measures covering intellectual property, government procurement, and e-commerce.

Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer has affirmed that the island nation is taking appropriate measures to prevent a recurrence of ‘derogatory remarks’ against India. Zameer’s assurance came during an official visit to India, where he acknowledged the understanding between the governments of Maldives and India regarding past incidents. He emphasized that such actions do not represent the government’s stance and that the focus is now on moving forward. Zameer’s visit also involved discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, focusing on strengthening bilateral and international cooperation between Maldives and India.

The Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) expresses confidence in the strength of Singapore-India relations as Lawrence Wong takes up the role of Prime Minister. SICCI Chairman Neil Parekh highlighted Wong’s contributions to bilateral ties through his co-chairmanship of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable. Since its establishment, SICCI has played a vital role in bolstering economic and business relations between Singapore and India. The chamber has facilitated numerous business missions, partnered with various Indian business associations, and organized investment roadshows in collaboration with Indian state governments.

Italy and Tunisia signed three agreements during Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s fourth visit to Tunisia within a year. This underscores Tunisia’s growing importance within Italy’s foreign policy framework, particularly due to its role as a departure point for migrants. Italy has committed €105 million in cash and credit lines to Tunisia to enhance economic relations and address illegal immigration. Experts believe these agreements reflect Italy’s desire to bolster bilateral ties and secure Tunisia’s cooperation in curbing migration. However, some argue that investing in Tunisia may not yield short-term results in reducing migration and that a more comprehensive approach is needed.

Sri Lanka has officially announced its intention to join the BRICS group of nations, seeking to leverage the economic and security benefits offered by the emerging alliance of non-Western economies. Speaking to reporters, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage affirmed the country’s plans to join BRICS+ and expressed optimism that it would strengthen both transport and food security. BRICS, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has recently witnessed significant expansion, welcoming Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, and the UAE as members. Sri Lanka’s membership pursuit is part of a growing trend, with countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Thailand, and Pakistan also expressing interest in joining the group.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Sri Lanka marks a historic milestone, as he becomes the first Iranian leader to visit the country since 2008. The primary purpose of his visit is to inaugurate a long-awaited hydropower and irrigation project, valued at $514 million. Despite initial delays due to international sanctions and other challenges, the project will now contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s energy and agricultural sectors.

A high-level North Korean delegation led by External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong Ho has arrived in Iran. The visit signifies increased cooperation between the two countries, who are believed to have covert military ties. This development comes as North Korea strengthens its military ties with Russia, amid allegations of arms transfers for technical assistance in satellite development, which both countries have denied.