H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid meets Caribbean leaders at World Governments Summit 2026, reinforcing UAE partnerships with Global South economies and advancing cooperation in trade, sustainability and future-ready development….reports Asian Lite News
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, held high-level talks with presidents, prime ministers and senior representatives from the Caribbean region during the World Governments Summit 2026, reinforcing the UAE’s growing engagement with Global South economies.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of leaders, reflecting the expanding diplomatic footprint of the summit as a platform for cross-regional cooperation. Those present included Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic; Surangel Whipps Jr., President of Palau; James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea; Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica; and senior ministers and officials from St Lucia, Suriname, the Bahamas, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Fiji, alongside representatives from the Association of Caribbean States.
Discussions focused on reviewing existing cooperation between the UAE and Caribbean nations while identifying new opportunities to strengthen strategic partnerships. Key areas included trade expansion, mutual investment, infrastructure development, renewable energy, maritime logistics and environmental sustainability, sectors viewed as critical to long-term resilience and growth.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the strategic importance of Caribbean nations within the evolving global economy, noting their role in international trade routes and their potential as emerging growth markets. He emphasised that the UAE views its engagement with the region as part of a broader commitment to building inclusive development partnerships that deliver shared prosperity.
He said Caribbean countries represent some of the most promising destinations in the new global economy, underlining that strategic partnerships must be built on shared visions, future-focused investment and enhanced cooperation to address emerging global challenges.
Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with Caribbean states, describing them as an essential bridge connecting Global South economies with international markets. He noted that deepening these relationships contributes to global economic stability while opening new avenues for trade, innovation and sustainable development.
He also praised the active participation of Caribbean leaders in the World Governments Summit 2026, saying their engagement enriched discussions and showcased the region’s development ambitions. According to Sheikh Mohammed, this exchange of ideas and experiences is central to the summit’s role as a global platform for shaping future governance.
Caribbean leaders, in turn, expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation with the UAE, describing it as a trusted and forward-looking partner. They acknowledged that their growing relationship with the UAE reflects a strategic shift towards diversified partnerships that can support resilient economies, climate adaptation and sustainable growth.
Several leaders highlighted opportunities to collaborate with the UAE in renewable energy, food security, maritime trade and climate resilience, areas of particular importance to island nations facing economic and environmental pressures. They noted that access to UAE expertise, investment and global networks could help unlock new growth pathways for their economies.
The leaders also commended Sheikh Mohammed for his vision in establishing the World Governments Summit as a leading international forum. They said the summit has evolved into a vital space for transforming geopolitical challenges into opportunities for cooperation, innovation and shared solutions.
The meeting was attended by senior UAE officials, including Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit Organisation; Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention; Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education; Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State; and Mohamed Yousef AlSharhan, Managing Director of the World Governments Summit Organisation.
Beyond bilateral meetings, Caribbean delegations played an active role across the summit’s agenda. Ministers, officials and decision-makers participated in keynote sessions, policy dialogues and specialised forums, including the Latin America and Caribbean Investment Forum and the 10th International Cooperation Conference of the Association of Caribbean States.
