UAE participates in Arab Economic and Social Council’s preparatory meeting for the development summit in Baghdad

Meeting highlights key initiatives led by the UAE for creating hope, building a better future for Arabs as well as empowering Arab youth

The UAE participated in the Arab Economic and Social Council ministerial meeting held in Baghdad. The session served as the preparatory meeting for the 5th Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, which coincides with the 34th regular session of the Council of the Arab League on 17 May.

The UAE delegation was led by His Excellency Abdulla Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, on behalf of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy. The delegation included H.E. Juma Mohammed Al Kait, Assistant Undersecretary for International Trade Affairs at the Ministry, in addition to other officials.

H.E. Al Saleh emphasised that supporting joint Arab action remains at the core of the UAE’s development strategy, guided by the vision of its wise leadership. In addition, the country is committed to playing an active role in creating a prosperous future for Arab societies by embracing innovative solutions and driving comprehensive, sustainable development, particularly in future sectors.

The meeting highlighted key UAE-led initiatives that have been implemented across the Arab world and have contributed to creating hope, building a better future for Arabs as well as preparing and empowering Arab youth. Foremost among these initiatives are the “Arab Hope Makers” initiative for advancing humanitarian work; the “Arab Reading Challenge” to promote a culture of reading; the “Knowledge Award” to support research and innovation; the “Digital School” as a leading model for sustainable learning; the “Ideal Arab Mother and Family Award” to honour family contributions; the “Arab Social Media Award”; the “Arab Youth Centre”  and the “Great Arab Minds” initiative, the region’s largest initiative for identifying and empowering exceptional talent.

The meeting also discussed a range of vital economic, social and developmental initiatives, including the latest developments related to the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) and the completion of requirements for establishing the Arab Customs Union. These efforts aim to strengthen economic integration and advance trade and investment openness among member states.

H.E. highlighted the significance of the initiative launched by the Secretary-General of the Arab League, titled “The Arab Artificial Intelligence Initiative: Towards Technology Leadership and Sustainable Development.” H.E. affirmed the UAE’s support for such endeavours and its readiness to share expertise and foster partnerships, drawing on its leading experience in this field. This aligns with the UAE's belief that AI is a key driver of future economic and social growth, considering modern technology as a pivotal tool for enhancing productivity, elevating capabilities, and boosting the competitiveness of Arab economies.

H.E. Al Saleh said: “We reaffirm the UAE's commitment to supporting all Arab efforts aimed at promoting regional stability and prosperity. This can be realised by adopting flexible policies and forging effective partnerships that enable Arab economies to navigate global changes and achieve balanced, comprehensive development.”

In detail, the meeting reviewed key topics on the Development Summit agenda, including the Arab Strategy for Food Security 2025–2035, the strategic framework and execution plan for the women’s economic and social empowerment regional programme, and a declaration of principles on the future of human resources considering the technology revolution. Additionally, it discussed the preparation of an Arab health strategy for schools and universities.

The meeting further explored means to strengthen Arab coordination across key sectors, such as promoting intra-regional trade, developing food supply chains, and supporting youth and women-focused development initiatives. The discussions also covered joint efforts to enhance regional healthcare and education infrastructure.

In addition, participants reviewed key initiatives presented by member states, exchanging views on mechanisms to implement them and ensure their effective impact on the ground. These efforts aim to improve living standards across Arab societies and enhance opportunities for sustainable development driven by innovation and socio-economic integration.

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