Abu dhabi: Hosuk Lee-Makiyama, Senior Advisor, Trade, Technology and International Affairs, and Director at the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE), has stated that the UAE is a responsible and major regional power, recognised for its leadership in economic diversification, global trade and innovation, as well as its prominent role in international technology discussions.
According to Emirates News Agency, Lee-Makiyama made these remarks while speaking on the sidelines of the launch of the Aid Foresight Programme in Abu Dhabi. He mentioned that the UAE is regarded as a natural, neutral, and trusted broker in various respects. This reputation supports the UAE and the GCC region in assuming a greater role in international discussions such as the Aid Foresight Programme. He further highlighted the need for Europe and East Asia to work more closely with the region to bring about tangible improvements for countries receiving Official Development Assistance (ODA).
Lee-Makiyama also emphasized the importance of addressing growing tensions in the global trading system, including tariffs, sanctions, and increasing frictions between the East and the West. He expressed his intention to contribute ideas to the Aid Foresight Programme, focusing on where the UAE should position itself in the future to maintain its role and relevance in ODA.