Experts, researchers, and academics affirmed the deep historical and cultural ties between the GCC countries and China, noting that these relations are witnessing remarkable growth and serve as a model for international cooperation based on mutual respect and shared benefits.

These statements were made during a panel discussion organized by TRENDS Research and Advisory in collaboration with the China International Communications Group (CICG) on the second day of TRENDS’ participation in the Beijing International Book Fair 2024 in the Chinese capital. The event featured a select group of experts and officials from both sides.

The panelists discussed various fields of cooperation between China and the GCC countries, emphasizing the importance of enhancing cooperation to serve mutual interests and achieve sustainable development for both sides.

Held in the Events Center at Beijing International Book Fair, the panel discussion highlighted the strong cultural relations between China and the GCC countries, which date back centuries and encompass a wide range of sectors, including energy, investment, infrastructure, technology, culture, and innovation. It also stressed the importance of further efforts in the field of culture and the exchange between GCC and Chinese media and think tanks to reflect the depth of these relationships.

The panelists called for strengthening communication and cooperation between universities in China and the GCC countries, exploring new horizons for collaboration in education, and utilizing information technology to enhance cooperation between Chinese and Arab think tanks and promote cultural exchange between the two sides.

They also underscored the deep relations between the United Arab Emirates and China, noting that mutual respect and common interests are the foundation of this solid relationship.

The panel discussion titled “China and the GCC States: Strengthening Cooperation and Partnership” began with the welcoming remarks by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research and Advisory. He welcomed participants to the heart of the Beijing International Book Fair, emphasizing the importance of the historical and cultural relations between China and the GCC countries. He noted that cooperation between the two sides has seen remarkable growth over the past decades, covering a wide range of sectors, including energy, trade, investment, infrastructure, innovation, technology, and culture.

Dr. Al-Ali pointed out that cooperation in the energy sector remains the cornerstone of bilateral relations, affirming TRENDS’ significant interest in Chinese affairs, given China’s status as a rising major international power and its pivotal role in the global economy.

He stated that TRENDS pays special attention to studying and analyzing various aspects of relations between China and the Arab world, particularly the GCC countries.

Chen Shi, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of CICG, stated that

At the beginning of the panel discussion, Mr. Fahad Al Mahri, Senior Researcher and Head of Dubai TRENDS Sector, outlined its five main themes: cultural and scientific cooperation between China and the GCC states, the Belt and Road Initiative: strengthening Sino-GCC cooperation, the role of the media in enhancing Sino-GCC dialogue, the development of Sino-UAE relations, and the prospects for economic and commercial cooperation between China and the GCC states.

Rawdha Al-Marzooqi, Researcher and Director of Distribution and Exhibitions at TRENDS, spoke about the aspects of cultural cooperation between the GCC and China, pointing out that it is a bridge for communication and knowledge exchange.

She noted that cultural relations between the two have existed for centuries and are witnessing significant growth, as evidenced by various joint initiatives and events, including cultural and artistic festivals, education, scientific research, and media exchange. She emphasized the role of the private sector in this field and affirmed TRENDS’ commitment to supporting this cooperation through its various initiatives and programs.

Dr. Chen Jing, Professor at the School of Middle Eastern Studies at Beijing Language and Culture University, confirmed the university’s full commitment to supporting and enhancing cooperation between China and the GCC countries, especially in the field of Arabic language education. She highlighted the importance of the Arabic language as a bridge for cultural communication and understanding between the two sides.

Li Ying, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Arabic edition of China Today magazine, emphasized the role of media in promoting Chinese-GCC dialogue. She stated that the media plays a role in conveying and clarifying the true image of both Chinese and GCC sides in all political, economic, cultural, scientific, and technological fields, contributing to shaping public opinion and enhancing mutual understanding between the two sides. She added that Chinese and GCC media act as a bridge that enhances each side’s knowledge and understanding of the other.

Abdulaziz Al-Shehhi, Senior Researcher at TRENDS, explained that the relations between the United Arab Emirates and the People’s Republic of China have seen strong bilateral cooperation over the past four decades, noting that mutual respect and common interests are the foundation of this solid relationship.

He affirmed that this enduring partnership is a shining example of the prosperous bilateral relations that the UAE seeks to build with various countries around the world, based on its belief in the importance of international cooperation to achieve sustainable development and shared prosperity.

The panel discussion concluded with the fifth theme, which focused on the prospects for economic and commercial cooperation between China and the GCC countries. Dr. Mi Jichao, Director of Director of Arabic Language School at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, stated that with the continued promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative, economic and trade cooperation between China and the GCC has become stronger and more robust, with trade volume between China and the GCC countries increasing rapidly.