Abu Dhabi’s non-oil exports to Poland have increased by 253 per cent in 2023, reflecting success of efforts made by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) to deepen economic relations.

The non-oil export figure was announced at the 2nd Business Forum between Abu Dhabi and Poland, held in Silesia Region, Poland. The event, which brought together senior government officials and industry leaders from both parties, marked a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, highlighting the strides made to date and the promising opportunities ahead.

The forum was attended by His Excellency Jakub Chełstowski, Marshal of the Silesia Region, His Excellency Jakub Sławek Ambassador of Poland to the UAE, and His Excellency Mohammed Al Harbi, UAE Ambassador to Poland.

His Excellency Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED, led Abu Dhabi’s delegation, which included senior officials and executives from different government entities and private sector’s companies in education, healthcare, energy, industry, technology, food and beverage, and AgriTech.

Discussions during the forum focused on various sectors, including renewable energy, technology, healthcare, and infrastructure, showcasing possibilities for collaboration. Participants engaged in discussions, shared insights and explored potential joint ventures.

The forum also provided insights into Abu Dhabi’s trade facilitation solutions and industrial sector, highlighting Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy’s (ADIS) programmes and incentives to attract investors and manufacturers. It served as an opportunity for participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of Abu Dhabi’s industrial landscape and explore avenues for investment and partnership.

His Excellency Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED, said: "This forum shows a significant stride towards fortifying the bonds between Abu Dhabi and Poland. Through this collaboration, we aim not only to enhance bilateral relations but also to chart a path towards a more prosperous future, one that transcends boundaries and fosters mutual prosperity for both nations. It is within this framework of cooperation and shared vision that we sow the seeds for lasting economic ties."

To further enhance bilateral relations, ADDED and Silesia region signed a partnership last year to develop economic, industrial, technological and trade relations between the two sides.

His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has emphasised that the chamber’s participation in the Abu Dhabi and Poland Business Forum for the second time is a testament to its commitment to bolstering the bilateral ties between the two countries, underscoring the chamber's dedication to fostering sustainable economic growth and prosperity. His Excellency Al Qubaisi pointed out that the forum's significance as a dynamic platform for communication, sharing knowledge, and for building direct partnerships among international businesses.

His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi said: "During its participation in the forum, the Abu Dhabi Chamber will hold numerous business meetings with senior officials and business leaders in Poland in addition to B2B meetings by private sector companies participating in the Forum under the umbrella of the Abu Dhabi Chamber." His Excellency Al Qubaisi added that the chamber will sign two cooperation agreements during the forum, which will promote economic and trade cooperation, build new partnerships, and increase investment across several promising sectors.

His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi said: "Poland holds a significant place within our economic collaboration plans." His Excellency reiterated the chamber's commitment to harnessing all efforts and provide all necessary facilities for Polish businessmen, entrepreneurs, and investors, while ensuring ease of access for Emirati businesses to Polish and European markets. His Excellency Al Qubaisi continued: "Our commitment aligns with our mission to make Abu Dhabi the first choice for doing business in the MENA region by 2025."

His Excellency Dr Ali Husain Makki, Executive Director of Logistics and Trade Facilitation Sector at ADDED, said: "This forum is a testament to the strength of bilateral relations between Abu Dhabi and Poland and the ample cooperation opportunities in different sectors. Our partnership stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished through mutual understanding and shared vision.

"To facilitate trade and ensure ease of doing business, we have launched various initiatives, including reducing costs and requirements, simplifying procedures and enabling seamless integration of government services. Our initiatives to offer businesses and entrepreneurs a compelling proposition are paying off as number of new businesses and flow of investments are witnessing a remarkable rise. We urge investors and business leaders from both sides to capitalise on these solid grounds."

The cooperation between the UAE and Poland stands on a deep bed of history with over 20 standing agreements. The forum aims to reflect the bilateral relations and growing economic ties between the two countries. The 2nd Business Forum between Abu Dhabi and Poland laid the groundwork for continued collaboration, paving the way for mutually beneficial opportunities and shared prosperity.