53rd Union Day of the United Arab Emirates
COLOMBO : Today, we mark the 53rd anniversary of the United Arab Emirates, a nation built on unity, ambition, and the unwavering pursuit of a better tomorrow. This national occasion embodies the spirit of our union, the vision of our wise leadership, and the aspirations of our people. We honour the legacy of our founders, embrace the promise of the future, and dedicate ourselves to the values of innovation, sustainability and teamwork that will guide our continued journey.
On this occasion, on behalf of the United Arab Emirates, I extend my sincere congratulations to His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the National People’s Power on their decisive victory in the recent parliamentary elections. We commend the people of Sri Lanka for their commitment to the transparent and peaceful transition of power. The United Arab Emirates reaffirms its steadfast friendship and partnership with Sri Lanka, and we stand ready to work with the government to build a prosperous and inclusive future for all citizens.
It gives me great pleasure to acknowledge the flourishing relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE. Founded on cooperation and mutual respect, our partnership has reached new heights in recent years, spanning trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
The UAE stands as a leading source of foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka and a major trading partner in the Middle East. Despite economic headwinds, UAE investors have expressed interest in Sri Lanka’s abundant investment opportunities. Both countries have agreed to embark on a joint venture that will establish pre-processing facilities to produce high-quality graphene for export. LOLC Advanced Technologies signed an MoU with the Khalifa University in UAE to cooperate in conducting research and developing graphene-based products.
Bilateral trade exceeded 1.9 billion US dollars in the year 2023, which is an increase of 48% compared to the total bilateral trade in the previous year. This speaks volumes about the resilience and potential of our partnership.
Beyond the figures, we are witnessing a growing bond between our people. The contributions of the Sri Lankan community in the UAE, estimated to be one of the highest in number in the Middle East, are invaluable. This is complemented by strong air and freight links that facilitate connection and exchange. Sri Lanka, with its plentiful resources and potential, is poised to become a vibrant economic hub in South Asia, further enhancing opportunities with the UAE and the Middle East.
The strong inflow of remittances by the Sri Lankan expatriates working in the UAE is of immense significance. During the first half of this year, remittances from the UAE reached an impressive $166.2 million, reflecting a notable 16.3% increase compared to the same period last year. This is the second highest amount of remittances received from any foreign country.
Our collaboration extends to travel and tourism. There has been an increase in passenger flights further strengthening connectivity and promoting Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. UAE national airlines are the largest in bringing tourists to Sri Lanka. The surge in UAE tourist arrivals, by nearly 50% year-on-year, is also a testament to this progress.
Looking ahead, we are eager to expand our horizons through mutual visits, trade agreements, and the convening of the Joint Committee. We are particularly keen to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy, a sector that holds immense promise for Sri Lanka’s sustainable development.
The United Arab Emirates is committed to regional and global security through strong multilateral partnerships. We believe stability and prosperity are best achieved through peaceful political and economic cooperation. Our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) are a key part of this strategy, driving economic diversification and forging strong international bonds through trade, industry, and investment. With 11 agreements concluded and more in negotiation, the UAE is building a network of partnerships for a more secure and prosperous future.
UAE is a global leader in sustainability, ranking 18th in the world for investment in green energy and clean technology. Our commitment to a sustainable future is unwavering, as demonstrated by the extension of the “Year of Sustainability” throughout 2024. But we are not just setting an example at home. UAE played a pivotal role in COP28, forging the historic “UAE Consensus” that unites 198 nations in a new era of climate action. This agreement has already mobilized over $85 billion in financing and launched ambitious initiatives to keep the 1.5-degree Celsius goal within reach.
As this year is the Year of Sustainability in the UAE, we selected talented young Sri Lankans who are active in this field as Sustainability Champions and awarded them air tickets to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, scheduled to be held in January 2025.
At the heart of the UAE’s policies are the values of human dignity, progress, and empowerment. We are building a future where our youth have the tools and opportunities to achieve their dreams, contributing to a stronger nation and a better world.
UAE recognizes the Palestinian issue as central to regional conflict and condemns the unacceptable violence faced by civilians in Gaza. As part of its historic commitment, the UAE is providing urgent humanitarian assistance to Gaza, but emphasizes that Palestinians need security, stability, and a government capable of managing their affairs with credibility and transparency.
As we celebrate this national occasion, I am filled with pride for UAE’s achievements and gratitude for the partnerships that support our journey. Together, we are building a nation where innovation flourishes, tolerance prevails, and sustainability guides our path. To our friends in Sri Lanka, thank you for your collaboration and friendship. May our bond continue to strengthen in the years to come. Let us continue to work towards a world blessed with peace, progress, and prosperity.
Khaled Nasser AlAmeri
Ambassador
