The Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah hosted an official dinner to enhance economic and trade cooperation with Belgium. The event took place at The Chedi Al Bait Hotel and was attended by Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, and Antoine Delcourt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the United Arab Emirates. Diplomats, investors, and senior officials from both regions were also present.

This gathering showcased Sharjah’s commitment to deepening its economic ties with the European Union. The discussions aimed to identify new avenues for collaboration and investment, providing a platform for exchanging expertise and insights. The event focused on expanding economic cooperation in line with Sharjah’s broader development objectives.

A comprehensive presentation highlighted Sharjah’s key economic sectors and the opportunities available to European investors. These sectors included technology, logistics, healthcare, education, and culture. Attendees received detailed information about the emirate’s business landscape and its competitive advantages for international stakeholders.

Notable attendees included Joren Selleslaghs, Political Affairs Adviser and Deputy Head of the Belgian Diplomatic Mission; Albert Feytons, Science and Technology Commissioner for Flanders; Laurence Heyblom, Trade Commissioner for Brussels; and Edith Mayeux, Trade Commissioner for the Walloon region. They were joined by senior officials from Sharjah, such as Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park), and Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office.

Several major Belgian companies participated in the event, representing sectors such as infrastructure, energy, finance, and technology. Their involvement facilitated direct discussions about potential collaborations and future opportunities.

According to Gulf Today, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi remarked that the meeting marked a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between Sharjah and Belgium. He emphasized Sharjah’s dedication to enhancing both economic and cultural ties with European Union member states, noting that the EU is the UAE’s second-largest trading partner.

He stated, “Current economic indicators demonstrate the resilience and depth of relations between the UAE and the European Union, with non-oil trade continuing on a consistent upward trajectory.” He highlighted Belgium’s role in re-export and logistical integration and expressed confidence that the meeting would encourage Belgian investors to explore Sharjah’s unique advantages as a gateway to the region.

This event is part of a series of meetings between the DGR and Belgian counterparts, both in the UAE and Brussels, reflecting Sharjah’s long-term vision of fostering partnerships with European investors and establishing itself as a leading destination for high-value investments.