Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, hosted a high-level delegation from Guatemala headed by H.E. Antonio Malouf, Minister of Economy,at the House of Wisdom in Sharjah to explore and strengthen the framework of economic collaboration and enhance commercial and investment partnerships between the emirate and the Central American country.

The DGR Chairman welcomed the delegation in the presence of Sheikh Majid Al Qasimi, Director of DGR, and held discussions with the Guatemalan officials to enhance trade exchange relations and joint investment opportunities in vital sectors such as tourism, food security, and sustainable waste management, amongst others, and to forge stronger bonds of cultural cooperation.

H.E. Antonio Malouf, who is also the head of the Guatemalan delegation at the ongoing Expo 2020 Dubai, was accompanied by H.E. Lars Pira, Ambassador of Guatemala in UAE, high-ranking officials representing the government of Guatemala, and senior members of the Guatemalan embassy in the UAE.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi highlighted the continuously evolving bilateral relations between Sharjah and the UAE with the countries of Central America and stressed that these historical ties serve as a robust foundation for boosting cooperation in vital sectors. He noted that the meeting with the Guatemalan delegation will enable investors from both sides to take advantage of the investment environment in Sharjah and Guatemala and develop their business expansion strategies.

The DGR Chairman added: “We see our close bonds with nations of the world as a great opportunity to bolster cultural exchange between peoples. Economic cooperation and partnerships not only yield high revenues and impact GDP, but also brings people and cultures together in solidarity. Nations cannot complete their cultural journeys or establish their unique identities unless they communicate and interact with other civilisations and develop deep and strong human connections.”

H.E. Antonio Malouf praised the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in promoting a knowledge sharing culture in the emirate and building the capacity of its people through notable institutions such as the House of Wisdom that offers inclusive opportunities for lifelong learning.

Highlighting the prospects of commercial and investment cooperation, the Guatemalan Minister of Economy said: “Sharjah has enormous competitive advantages thanks to its sophisticated infrastructure, logistics capabilities, and strategic location at the centre of major world markets. This can be complemented with the huge potential Guatemala enjoys in a range of sectors, especially in the field of agri-business.”

To mark the 200^th year of independence of the Central American country on September 15, 2021, DGR had hosted a week-long bicentennial celebration at the House of Wisdom to honour the culture and diversity of Guatemala. The event also sought to foster greater intercultural understanding and explore new business and investment partnerships with Sharjah and the UAE.