Consul General of the UAE in Shanghai H.E. Muhannad Sulaiman Alnaqbi

 
Editor's Note:

The Fourth China International Import Expo (CIIE) will be held in Shanghai from November 5 to 10 as scheduled. Despite the difficulties brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, global traders plan to gather at the annual event online and offline to showcase their products and services in fields such as healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) and carbon neutrality, looking to boost their performance in the Chinese market.

The Global Times (GT) interviewed 15 foreign diplomats in Beijing and Shanghai about their engagement and expectations for this year's CIIE. Here is：

H.E. Muhannad Sulaiman Alnaqbi

Consul General of the UAE in Shanghai

GT: How does the UAE plan to engage in the CIIE despite facing challenges from COVID-19? 

H.E. Muhannad Sulaiman Alnaqbi: UAE companies and companies around the world have high hopes for the CIIE. It is a valuable opportunity for them to access the huge market in China. UAE companies will showcase themselves at the CIIE and hold talks with their Chinese counterparts. About 6/7 UAE companies have confirmed their participation. The UAE has been one of the most active participants in the previous three CIIEs.

GT: What are your expectations for the upcoming event?

H.E. Muhannad Sulaiman Alnaqbi: The epidemic of COVID-19 has not stopped the CIIE from being held. I believe this year's expo will be a unique one. Unlike previous years, some exhibitors will take innovative ways to negotiate and display their products through the Internet.

I appreciate very much Shanghai's efforts in preparing for this year's expo. Shanghai is a very dynamic city. I am glad to attend the expo this year. We are also looking forward to participating in the 5th CIIE next year.