The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) and the Federation of United Arab Emirates Chambers of Commerce & Industry have forged a significant partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at establishing the UAE-Fiji Joint Business Council (UFJBC). This strategic initiative was unveiled during the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai.
Edward Bernard, Chief Executive of FCEF, highlighted that the UFJBC will facilitate private sector-driven initiatives to enhance trade, investment, and services across key industrial sectors between Fiji and the UAE. This collaborative effort marks a pivotal moment for both nations, aiming to bolster economic ties and create new opportunities for business expansion.
The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSME and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica; UAE Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, H.E. Alia Al Mazroei; and Fiji’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faizal Koya. Kamikamica remarked on the significance of the MOU, expressing hope for increased investment and trade opportunities arising from the UFJBC in the coming years.
Humaid Mohamed Ben Salem, Secretary General of the UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry, signed the MoU on behalf of the UAE. Investment Fiji’s Chief Executive Kamal Chetty noted that this partnership will not only strengthen economic relationships but also provide avenues for Fijian businesses to tap into the UAE market while attracting crucial investments into Fiji.
As the FCEF prepares to collaborate with various governmental bodies and Investment Fiji through the UFJBC, Bernard emphasized the importance of a mutually beneficial relationship that aims to promote growth and prosperity for both nations. He extended gratitude to the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, MSME and Communications, Investment Fiji, and the Fiji Embassy in the UAE for their support in making this collaboration possible.
This partnership holds great promise for both economies, offering a platform for businesses to engage more deeply, exchange resources, and capitalize on each other’s markets to foster sustainable development. The establishment of the UFJBC exemplifies a commitment to international collaboration that could lead to significant advancements in trade relations and economic growth for Fiji and the UAE.
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