Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum discusses bilateral trade and sports with France Ambassador to the UAE Nicolas Niemtchinow at the Emirates Towers in Dubai this month.
Byline Hazem Hussein / Tariq Al Fahaam
The meeting explored ways to enhance bilateral relations between the UAE and France across various spheres. Key topics of discussion included deepening sporting ties and exchange of expertise in hosting major sports events, training of athletes and the development of sports venues and facilities.
The meeting also discussed the UAE leadership’s strong support for the advancement of sports, which has had a positive impact on the growth of the Olympic movement in the country and raised the global competitiveness of the nation’s athletes.
The meeting also touched on France’s preparations to host the Summer Olympic Games later this year. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed extended his sincere wishes for the successful organisation of the 33rd Summer Olympic Games to be held from 26th July to 11th August, 2024, and the Paralympic Games, set to take place from 28th August to 8th September, in Paris. The city will be hosting the Olympics for the third time since 1900 and 1924.
France Ambassador Nicholas Niemtchinow expressed his admiration for the UAE’s comprehensive progress across various fields and its forward-thinking development strategy. He affirmed France’s keenness to strengthen mutual ties in various areas.
The meeting was also attended by Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy and Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee Faris Al Mutawa.
An ambitious 10-year bilateral roadmap of the UAE-France strategic partnership (2020-2030) was adopted in June 2020 and in December 2021, major economic agreements with a total value of more than 15 billion euros were signed during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the UAE.
The two countries have reaffirmed their commitment to projects like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. Ongoing discussions include new programs of cooperation in the museum sector and in cultural and creative industries.
