MACAO The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has highlighted how important China is to advancing its clean energy goals, and the two countries’ cooperation goes far beyond trade to include game-changing sustainability initiatives.
Sheikh Saoud Al Mualla, the Consul-General of the United Arab Emirates in Hong Kong, spoke at the Zayed Sustainability Prize Forum, which was part of BEYOND Expo 2025 in Macao. He said:
“China and the United Arab Emirates have a strong partnership in sustainable development. China has played a key role in our transition to clean energy, from historic solar projects to wind energy demonstrations.
Sheikh Saoud emphasized that the UAE and China have a deep and strategic relationship that extends across a number of industries, including energy, logistics, finance, agriculture, tourism, and even space exploration.
Under the theme “Accelerating Impact: China’s Innovation for Global Sustainability,” the forum, which was co-hosted by the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF) and the Zayed Sustainability Prize, brought together over 300 entrepreneurs, sustainability specialists, and world leaders.
In six major categories—health, food, energy, water, climate action, and global high schools—the Zayed Sustainability Prize has honored 128 winners since its inception in 2008, whose creative solutions have improved the lives of over 400 million people.
“This gathering reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration, unlocking capital, and supporting technologies and youth-led solutions that shape the future,” said Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Director of the Zayed Sustainability Prize.
The event featured a series of high-level discussions, with 22 leaders from both public and private sectors tackling issues such as impact investment, technology innovation, and youth education. Attendees also had the chance to hear stories from past Prize laureates who have driven grassroots change globally.
William Wang, Chief Representative for the Middle East & Africa at SIEF, echoed these sentiments, describing the UAE as a hub of future innovation and global impact.
“While many see the Middle East and Africa as energy and investment powerhouses, we view the region as fertile ground for innovation and cultural advancement,” said Wang. “It’s a privilege to help build platforms that promote trust, opportunity, and shared purpose.”
As the official sustainability partner of BEYOND Expo, which attracted over 30,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors, the Zayed Sustainability Prize continues to drive international cooperation, encouraging attendees to forge cross-border partnerships and expand the reach of impactful, scalable sustainability solutions.
