Eritrean Community Festival Celebrates Culture and Unity in the UAE

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Held from January 24 to 26, the annual Eritrean community festival in the United Arab Emirates themed "Peace Anchored on Resilience" was a resounding success in bringing together Eritreans from across the region to celebrate their rich heritage through sports, exhibitions, and cultural performances. The festival had around 130 children. There was sports competition, children village, and an artistic performances, and attendees also explored the photo exhibitions organized by Eritrean communities in Dubai and the North Emirates as well as traditional clothing and household items. Mr. Omar Mahmud, Chairman of the Eritrean Community in North Emirates, spoke on the importance of the festival, which binds children born in the diaspora with their motherland. He suggested that more participation was needed for such events to remain successful. Speaking on similar lines, Mr. Alamin Ali Mohammed, Chairman of the Eritrean Community in Dubai, felt such cultural get-togethers are importa...
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UAE and New Zealand Strengthen Diplomatic Ties and Expand Cooperation

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 The visit of New Zealand's Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Christopher Luxon, to the United Arab Emirates on January 14, 2025, marked a milestone in the 40-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering deeper bilateral cooperation in trade, sustainability, and global peace efforts.



Milestones in Trade and Economic Relations

The visit was highlighted by the signing of two critical agreements:

  • The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
  • The Agreement on Promotion and Protection of Investments

With bilateral non-oil trade reaching over $642 million in the first nine months of 2024, an 8% increase compared to 2023, the leaders emphasized the agreements' potential to unlock new economic opportunities, reduce tariffs, and strengthen supply chains. New Zealand's strong agribusiness sector, including dairy, meat, and horticulture exports, was highlighted as a key contributor to the UAE’s food security initiatives.

The two sides also agreed to advance negotiations on a Customs Mutual Administrative Assistance Agreement (CMAA) and welcomed the New Zealand-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement, set to complement the CEPA and enhance trade flows.

Deepening People-to-People Connections

Recognizing the close cultural and social ties between the UAE and New Zealand, both leaders celebrated the contributions of over 4,000 New Zealanders residing in the UAE. Tourism and mutual visa waiver programs were acknowledged as vital enablers of connectivity.

To further enhance travel, New Zealand announced plans to allow UAE passport holders to access eGate facilities at its borders from 2025. Such initiatives will bolster ties and encourage greater interaction between the peoples of both nations.

Shared Commitment to Sustainability and Climate Action

The leaders reaffirmed their dedication to combating climate change and promoting renewable energy. Collaborative projects, such as the UAE-New Zealand Renewable Energy Partnership, were highlighted as exemplary models of international cooperation. The “LAKARO Phase 2” solar energy project in Fiji, funded jointly by the two nations, serves as a testament to their shared commitment to advancing clean energy in the Pacific region.

Acknowledging the UAE’s leadership at COP28 and the tripling of renewable energy capacity globally by 2030, New Zealand pledged continued support for collaborative energy initiatives, both in the Pacific and beyond.

Regional and Global Engagement

Discussions extended to pressing regional and international challenges, including the conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. Both leaders called for peaceful resolutions, adherence to international law, and humanitarian aid. They reaffirmed the importance of multilateralism and diplomacy to address global security and stability concerns.

The leaders also welcomed the UAE’s accession to the Antarctic Treaty System, paving the way for scientific collaboration and the promotion of peace and sustainability in Antarctica.

A Vision for the Future

This historic visit has solidified the UAE-New Zealand relationship as a model of modern diplomacy and cooperation. By aligning efforts in trade, sustainability, and peace-building, the two nations have reinforced their shared commitment to mutual prosperity and global stability.

With visionary leadership and a focus on shared values, the UAE and New Zealand look forward to a future defined by innovation, partnership, and enduring friendship.

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