TRENDS participates in research forum in China

emirates7 - TRENDS Research & Advisory took part in the inaugural UAE-China Think Tanks Forum in Beijing, an event organized by the UAE Embassy in China.

The Centre expressed its gratitude for this initiative, which underscores the growing importance of think tanks in the modern world and highlights the deep historical, cultural, and economic bonds between the UAE and China.

In his address at the forum, Abdulaziz Al-Shehhi, a senior researcher at TRENDS, emphasized that the forum serves as a crucial platform for exchanging ideas and perspectives on the future shared by the two nations, particularly in light of the rapidly evolving global environment.

Al-Shehhi highlighted the vital role that think tanks play in promoting dialogue and understanding between countries and peoples, as well as in shaping the future. He reaffirmed TRENDS' commitment to collaborating with Chinese research institutions, stating that such partnerships are essential for fostering a prosperous future for all.

To further these goals, TRENDS has established an office in Beijing to enhance academic and research collaboration and to support researchers and scholars focused on Arab-Chinese relations, with a special emphasis on UAE-China relations.

Representing TRENDS, Al-Shehhi also participated in a panel discussion on "Trade and Economic Recovery," organized by the UAE Embassy in partnership with the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS). During the discussion, he noted that the Chinese economy is gradually recovering despite facing several challenges, with significant progress observed in the industrial and service sectors.

Al-Shehhi emphasized that China's economic recovery is not only of domestic significance but also of global importance, as China is a key trade partner for many countries and a major driver of global economic growth.

In another panel discussion titled "Education, Culture, and Tourism," researcher Shamma Ahmed Al Qutba represented TRENDS. She discussed the use of digital platforms to connect the new generation with heritage, suggesting the creation of unique cultural experiences that merge modern technology with traditional content from both the UAE and China. This could include virtual exhibitions that allow young people to explore museums and heritage sites using virtual reality (VR) technology, thereby enhancing their cultural awareness and understanding.

Al Qutba also proposed organizing interactive online workshops to teach traditional crafts, such as Arabic calligraphy or Chinese painting, enabling young people to learn about ancient manual skills and their cultural significance.

She concluded by stating that the shared cultural heritage between the UAE and China can be further strengthened through the production of digital content that helps connect the new generation with the history and culture of both countries.