The UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) on key areas such as food security, trade, and environmental conservation, according to senior Emirati official H.E. Dr. Amna Al Dahak.
In recent statements, Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the UAE’s dedication to strengthening ties with the BRICS group, particularly in the realm of food security. She emphasised that the UAE “welcomes the establishment of the BRICS Food Security Cluster” and views it as a vital platform to expand food trade and cooperation. The UAE has prioritised food security as a national agenda and is committed to facilitating agribusiness trade through a comprehensive, whole-of-nation approach.
“The UAE is eager to work with BRICS nations to address shared challenges in food security,” Dr. Al Dahak said. This statement underscores the UAE’s proactive stance in fostering international partnerships to enhance food resilience and sustainability.
Beyond food security, Dr. Al Dahak underscored the UAE’s interest in expanding trade and investment ties with the BRICS bloc. She also highlighted the importance of collaborating on environmental conservation initiatives, which aligns with the UAE’s broader strategic focus on sustainability and climate action.
“Expanding our trade and investment relationships with BRICS countries and working together on environmental conservation are crucial steps towards achieving our national and global sustainability goals,” Dr. Al Dahak noted. Dr. Al Dahak’s remarks reflect the UAE’s proactive engagement with the BRICS group, aiming to leverage this partnership to advance the country’s priorities in food security, trade, and environmental stewardship.
The UAE’s commitment to these areas showcases its strategic focus on building resilient and sustainable systems through international cooperation.
The Benefits of Saudi Arabia Joining BRICS
Saudi Arabia’s potential membership in the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) could bring significant benefits to both the kingdom and the existing member countries. Here are some key advantages:
Economic Diversification and Growth
Increased Investment Opportunities: Saudi Arabia’s inclusion in BRICS would likely stimulate investment flows between the member countries. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to diversify its economy beyond oil, and partnerships within BRICS could accelerate investments in sectors such as technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
ALSO READ: The UAE leverages ties with China for its own benefit
Expanded Trade Networks: Joining BRICS would open up new markets for Saudi exports and imports, facilitating trade with some of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies. This would help reduce the kingdom’s reliance on traditional trading partners and diversify its trade portfolio.
Energy Cooperation
Enhanced Energy Security: As a major oil producer, Saudi Arabia could play a pivotal role in energy cooperation within BRICS. The group could benefit from stable and secure energy supplies, while Saudi Arabia could leverage its position to negotiate better terms and explore joint ventures in energy projects, including renewables.
Joint Energy Initiatives: Collaboration on energy projects, including clean energy and technological advancements in oil and gas, could lead to shared expertise and innovation, benefiting all member nations.
Geopolitical Influence
Strengthened Global Position: Being part of BRICS would enhance Saudi Arabia’s geopolitical influence, aligning it with other major emerging economies. This could provide a platform for Saudi Arabia to participate more actively in global economic and political discussions.
Balanced Global Order: Saudi Arabia’s membership could contribute to a more balanced global economic order by countering the dominance of traditional Western powers. BRICS, with Saudi Arabia, could advocate for reforms in international institutions to better represent the interests of developing countries.
Cultural and Technological Exchange
Cultural Collaboration: Joining BRICS would facilitate cultural exchange programs, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation. This could lead to joint initiatives in education, research, and tourism, fostering stronger people-to-people ties.
Technological Advancements: Saudi Arabia could benefit from the technological advancements of BRICS nations, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and digital infrastructure. Collaborative research and development projects could spur innovation and economic growth.
Strategic Partnerships
Infrastructure Development: Cooperation with BRICS countries could accelerate Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure development projects, including those related to transportation, urban development, and smart cities. This would support the kingdom’s long-term economic goals.
Agricultural Collaboration: With food security being a crucial concern, partnerships within BRICS could lead to improved agricultural practices, technology transfer, and sustainable farming methods, ensuring a stable food supply for Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia joining BRICS would create a win-win scenario, fostering economic, strategic, and cultural ties that benefit both the kingdom and the existing member states. It would provide Saudi Arabia with new opportunities for diversification, growth, and geopolitical influence while enhancing the collective strength and global impact of the BRICS group.
ALSO READ: BRICS Cooperation- China and Egypt strengthen partnership