TradeRelations – UAE Strengthens Economic Cooperation at Eurasia Forum in Kazakhstan
TradeRelations – The United Arab Emirates reaffirmed its commitment to expanding international economic partnerships as senior officials participated in the Eurasia Economic Forum 2026 held in Astana, Kazakhstan. Representing UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi attended the gathering, which brought together leaders and policymakers from countries linked to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Focus on Trade Connectivity
The forum took place alongside meetings of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council and served as a platform for discussions on regional commerce, logistics development, and economic cooperation. During a session focused on the future of Eurasian trade and transportation networks, Al Zeyoudi outlined the importance of improving cross-border connectivity and adopting modern logistics solutions.
He highlighted the role of digital systems in streamlining trade procedures, including the use of paperless documentation. According to him, investment in transport infrastructure and logistics projects can contribute to stronger commercial ties between EAEU member countries and international partners.
Bilateral Meetings Expand Cooperation
On the sidelines of the event, Al Zeyoudi held a series of meetings with senior officials from the region. Discussions were conducted with Andrey Slepnev, the Eurasian Economic Commission’s minister responsible for trade, and Arman Shakkaliyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Trade and Integration.
The meetings explored opportunities to deepen economic collaboration, increase investment activity, and identify areas where joint initiatives could benefit both sides. The UAE minister also met Daniyar Joldoshevich, First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, along with Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre.
Additional discussions took place with Allen Chaizhunussov, Chairman of Kazakhstan’s Export Credit Agency, focusing on measures that could support business cooperation and trade financing between the countries.
Growing UAE-EAEU Economic Links
Al Zeyoudi was accompanied by Mohammed Saeed Al Ariqi, UAE Ambassador to Kazakhstan and Non-Resident Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan. During the forum, he emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with EAEU economies as part of the UAE’s broader strategy to expand its international trade network.
He noted that closer cooperation with regional partners can create fresh opportunities for businesses, encourage investment flows, and support sustainable economic development. The UAE, he said, continues to position itself as a global center for commerce, innovation, and long-term growth.
Trade Figures Reflect Strong Momentum
Economic data presented during the discussions highlighted the growing commercial relationship between the UAE and EAEU member states. In 2025, non-oil trade between the UAE and the bloc surpassed USD 33.3 billion, marking a 15 percent increase compared with the previous year.
Trade activity between the UAE and Kazakhstan also showed steady growth, reaching around USD 6.1 billion. The figure represented an annual increase of 8.6 percent, reinforcing Kazakhstan’s importance as a key economic partner. The UAE remains the leading Arab trading partner of Kazakhstan.
Partnership Agreement Supports Future Growth
The recent progress builds on the Economic Partnership Agreement signed between the UAE and the Eurasian Economic Union last year. The agreement aims to reduce trade obstacles, facilitate business activity, and promote cooperation across several strategic sectors.
Officials believe the framework will help strengthen economic integration while supporting the UAE’s long-term objectives of diversification, trade expansion, and sustainable development through international partnerships.