The 9th China-Arab Business Conference, the 7th Investment Seminar in China
The 9th China-Arab Business Conference, the 7th Investment Seminar in China
President of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association, Ali Al-Abdallah:
“We have a great opportunity to develop Arab–Chinese economic relations.”
Lebanon, April 7, 2021
The President of the Lebanese Chinese Business Association, Ali Mahmoud El Abdallah, stated that international cooperation in the economic field has become one of the top priorities, especially after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that international economic relations cannot develop and maintain their stability and growth without genuine cooperation.
El Abdallah added that China has shown full openness to strengthening partnerships and enhancing cooperation with all Arab countries. “It is our duty as leaders in the Arab private sector to support everything that contributes to reinforcing Arab-Chinese relations, for the benefit of our nations and our businesses,” he said. His remarks came on the occasion of the ninth session of the Arab-Chinese Businessmen Conference and the seventh Investment Symposium held within the framework of the Executive Program of the Arab-Chinese Cooperation Forum.
El Abdallah noted that China is not merely a friendly country; it is the second-largest trading partner of Arab states, and there are currently great opportunities that can enable us to strengthen and expand these relations, especially amid the current geopolitical shifts worldwide. “The Arab world has always viewed China as a global friend, and today we must move toward translating this vision into concrete action,” he stressed.
However, to achieve these goals, El Abdallah pointed out that several steps must be taken urgently—most importantly, working toward economic integration projects on one hand and increasing cooperation across all economic sectors on the other. He emphasized that during this period, particularly under the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, it is crucial to benefit from China’s tremendous technological advancements.
Renowned Chinese companies such as Huawei, Alibaba, and ZTE now play a key international role in promoting sustainable economic development and enhancing global economic capacity. He explained that digital solutions such as 5G networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing, and data analytics can greatly contribute to advancing the Arab digital economy. These technological tools can help countries and companies develop their operations and boost their competitiveness.
El Abdallah concluded by saying: “The Arab-Chinese Businessmen Conference and the Seventh Investment Symposium allow us to continue strengthening relations between Arab countries and China, as well as to consolidate our shared interests. We look forward to participating personally and directly in this highly significant international event once the COVID-19 pandemic comes to an end.”