ECIPE Director Hosuk Lee-Makiyama praised the UAE’s leadership in trade, innovation, and diplomacy, calling it a trusted regional power.
ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates has been recognised as a major regional power in trade, innovation, and global diplomacy, according to Hosuk Lee-Makiyama, Director at the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE). Speaking during the launch of the Aid Foresight Programme in Abu Dhabi, he described the UAE as a natural, neutral, and trusted broker in international affairs.
Lee-Makiyama, also a senior advisor on trade and international relations, highlighted the UAE’s growing influence in the realms of economic diversification, global trade and technology policy. He said, “The UAE plays a responsible leadership role and is clearly recognised as a major power in the region.” His remarks come at a time when the UAE continues to enhance its global presence through strategic investments, multilateral cooperation, and technology-driven development.
He pointed out that the UAE and the broader GCC region are assuming an increasingly important role in international discussions, particularly in areas such as Official Development Assistance (ODA). “Europe and East Asia must partner more deeply with the region to achieve lasting outcomes on the ground for ODA recipient countries,” he noted.
Lee-Makiyama also discussed ongoing tensions in global trade, including rising tariffs, sanctions, and political friction between East and West. He stressed that the UAE is well-positioned to navigate these complexities and help shape future development frameworks. He added, “My goal is to contribute ideas about where the UAE can position itself in this changing landscape.”
The Aid Foresight Programme is part of the UAE’s broader vision to lead innovation in international development and strengthen its role as a global partner for sustainable progress.
