UAE And Mali Hold Forum To Boost Trade And Investment Ties

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of Mali recently held a business forum to explore new opportunities for trade and investment. The event was hosted by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in cooperation with the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The forum became a platform for business leaders from both countries to meet, share ideas, and look into possible projects that could benefit their economies.

Warm Welcome to the Malian Delegation

The Malian trade delegation, led by senior business leaders, visited the UAE from August 13 to 18. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Vice Chairman of the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber, warmly welcomed the Malian delegation. He spoke about the importance of this visit, highlighting that it was an opportunity to strengthen the friendship and business partnership between the two countries.

Growing Bilateral Relations Between UAE and Mali

Al Owais praised the growing relations between the UAE and Mali. He mentioned that the ties are not only friendly but also have great potential for economic cooperation. He explained that the investment opportunities Mali is offering are very attractive to Emirati investors. These opportunities align with the UAE’s economic diversification strategy, which encourages investing in different sectors to reduce reliance on oil and create new sources of growth.

UAE’s Commitment to Promoting Opportunities

The Vice Chairman also assured the Malian delegation that the UAE Chambers, especially the Sharjah Chamber, are committed to actively promoting Mali’s opportunities among Emirati businesses. This means that the chambers will encourage their business communities to look into Mali and invest there. According to Al Owais, the opportunities in Mali are spread across many different fields, which makes them even more interesting to UAE companies.

Strong Interest from Emirati Business Community

Al Owais further stressed that there is growing interest from the UAE business community in exploring Mali’s investment environment. Many Emirati investors are always looking for new and promising markets, and Mali is now becoming one of them. He noted that the UAE Chambers want to build closer cooperation with their Malian counterparts in the coming period to make sure that these interests are turned into real partnerships and projects.

Plans to Sign a New Agreement

During the forum, Al Owais announced plans to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement will aim to establish a joint business council between the UAE and Mali. The council will provide a structured platform where private sector representatives from both sides can directly engage with each other. By creating such a council, both countries can ensure regular communication and follow-up on agreed projects and opportunities.

Focus on Key Strategic Sectors

The proposed joint business council will focus on several important sectors. These include agriculture, food security, infrastructure, energy, and mining. Each of these sectors has great potential for cooperation. For example, agriculture and food security are vital areas for Mali, while the UAE is keen on securing stable food supplies. Similarly, energy and mining are rich sectors in Mali that Emirati investors can explore, while infrastructure development is necessary for Mali’s growth and presents profitable projects.

Optimism About Future Cooperation

Al Owais expressed optimism that the UAE-Mali Business Forum would be a catalyst for stronger trade and investment ties. He said the discussions and projects introduced during this forum could lead to long-term partnerships. Such cooperation would not only benefit businesses but also contribute to the development of both nations by creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and increasing trade volumes.

Mali’s Investment Portfolio Presentation

The Malian delegation, led by Madiou Simpara, President of the Mali Chamber of Commerce and Industry, presented a detailed portfolio of investment opportunities to the UAE side. This portfolio included a wide range of projects that cover Mali’s most important sectors. The delegation made clear that Mali is open for business and eager to welcome Emirati investments that would help both economies grow.

Key Projects Introduced by Mali

Some of the projects Mali introduced include renewable energy initiatives, development of artesian wells for water access, and major infrastructure programs. In addition, Mali presented plans to establish a large commercial complex and a modern sports complex. These projects show Mali’s ambition to not only build its economy but also to improve social infrastructure for its citizens.

Opportunities in Manufacturing and Healthcare

The Malian delegation also highlighted opportunities in manufacturing and urban development, which are sectors ready for growth. Another important project presented was the construction of a state-of-the-art international hospital. This hospital would not only improve healthcare access in Mali but also open opportunities for Emirati investors who are experienced in building and running modern medical facilities.

Land Transport and Logistics Development

Another promising sector Mali introduced is land transport. The country is aiming to improve its transport network to connect different regions more effectively. Investment in land transport will help Mali support its growing population and strengthen trade both inside the country and with neighboring states. This creates a clear area where UAE companies with expertise in logistics and transport infrastructure can contribute.

Invitation to Visit Mali

Madiou Simpara extended a personal invitation to UAE business representatives to visit Mali. He emphasized that seeing the projects firsthand would give Emirati investors a clearer picture of the opportunities available. By visiting the sites, they can understand the real potential, challenges, and benefits of investing in Mali. Simpara believes such visits will create more trust and speed up decision-making between both sides.

Strengthening Collaboration Between Chambers

Simpara also mentioned that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Mali is very keen to strengthen collaboration with UAE chambers. He underlined that cooperation across multiple sectors is the main goal. By working closely with UAE chambers, Mali hopes to not only attract investments but also learn from the UAE’s experience in building modern and diversified economies.

Advancing Trade and Economic Cooperation

The Malian delegation made it clear that their ultimate objective is to advance commercial cooperation and reinforce bilateral trade ties with the UAE. With the UAE’s strong presence in global markets and Mali’s vast natural resources and development needs, the two countries have a lot to offer each other. This partnership could create a win-win situation where Mali benefits from development and the UAE benefits from profitable investments and new markets.

The UAE-Mali Business Forum in Sharjah marked an important step in building a stronger partnership between the two nations. By bringing together business leaders, chambers of commerce, and government representatives, the forum created a foundation for long-term cooperation. Both sides left the event hopeful and motivated to turn discussions into real projects that will bring economic growth and strengthen bilateral relations.