In his remarks, the diplomat emphasized that, over more than five decades, the United Arab Emirates has built a development model based on economic diversification, investment in artificial intelligence, clean energy, and inclusive education, in which 70% of university students are women.

He underscored the participation of more than 290 million people in the National Day celebrations, reflecting a diverse and open society comprised of residents from over 200 nationalities, in an environment of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Alkaabi highlighted his country’s accession to BRICS as an expression of its commitment to multilateralism and South-South cooperation, and expressed gratitude for the support of Cuba and other Caribbean nations for Emirati candidacies in international forums, which has enabled Abu Dhabi to attain leadership positions in multilateral organizations.

He reported that the first meeting of the Joint Economic Commission between the United Arab Emirates and Cuba took place this year, a mechanism that opens new avenues for collaboration in trade, biotechnology, renewable energy, and education.

He also announced that Cuban academic institutions have visited his country to expand bilateral cooperation.

Furthermore, he emphasized the Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund, an initiative aimed at supporting island nations in their transition to clean energy sources and strengthening their resilience to climate disasters, and recalled his delegation’s participation in the recent COP30 held in Belém, Brazil.

Finally, he reiterated the United Arab Emirates’ interest in deepening ties with Cuba, based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and complementarity.

The event was attended by Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Anayansi Rodríguez, high-ranking Cuban government officials, and representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Havana.

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