The Africa International Chamber of Commerce & Industry (AICCI) is pleased to announce that President Mark G. Darko and Trade Commissioner Theophilus Cromwell held a significant meeting on December 14, 2020, in Dubai with His Excellency Adnan Al Noorani, Chairman of the Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi. This meeting marked an important step in fostering bilateral trade relations and exploring collaborative opportunities between African businesses and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A Vision Aligned with UAE’s Strategic Mandates

The Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi is renowned for its dedication to initiatives that align with the UAE’s strategic mandates. These initiatives encompass a wide range of focus areas, including educational programs for all ages, women in business, cultural diversity, charitable programs, sustainability, and impact initiatives that support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A Commitment to Support and Collaboration

During the meeting, His Excellency Adnan Al Noorani emphasized the Private Office’s commitment to supporting dedicated businesses and projects. The Office leverages its extensive reach and connections to serve as a springboard for businesses looking to execute and expand their operations within the UAE. This commitment is particularly beneficial for AICCI, as it seeks to enhance trade relations and create new opportunities for African businesses in the UAE market.

Exploring Bilateral Trade Relations

The meeting provided a platform for AICCI to engage in discussions on bilateral trade relations. Mark G. Darko and Theophilus Cromwell presented AICCI’s vision and the potential for mutual growth through collaboration. They explored various areas where African and UAE businesses can work together, including investment opportunities, trade partnerships, and initiatives that support sustainable development.

Strategic Areas of Focus

• Educational Programs: Emphasizing the importance of education at all levels to foster knowledge and skills.
• Women in Business: Promoting gender equality and empowering women entrepreneurs.
• Cultural Diversity: Encouraging cultural exchange and diversity as a means of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
• Charitable Programs: Supporting philanthropic initiatives that benefit communities.
• Sustainability and Impact Initiatives: Aligning with global goals to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

Looking Ahead

The discussions during this meeting have laid a strong foundation for future collaboration between AICCI and the Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi. The commitment to supporting businesses and projects, along with the strategic focus areas, presents numerous opportunities for AICCI members to benefit from the extensive network and resources available through the Private Office.

Mark G. Darko expressed his optimism about the potential of this partnership, stating, “We are excited about the prospects of collaborating with the Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi. Their dedication to impactful initiatives aligns perfectly with our goals at AICCI. We look forward to working together to drive growth and development for African businesses in the UAE.”

Theophilus Cromwell added, “This meeting has opened new avenues for bilateral trade relations. The support and resources offered by the Private Office will significantly enhance our efforts to create sustainable business opportunities for our members.”

Acknowledgements

We extend our sincere thanks to His Excellency Adnan Al Noorani and the team at the Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi for their warm welcome and productive discussions. This collaboration marks the beginning of a promising journey towards mutual growth and prosperity.

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