News

As part of CWEIC’s efforts to strengthen ties in the Middle East, Lord Swire visited Dubai, coordinated by our Strategic Adviser for the region, James E. Harris.

On Monday, 24th February, Lord Swire and James met with Mr Walid Hareb Al Falahi, CEO of the UAE Trade Centre, to explore opportunities for deepening trade and investment links between the UAE and Commonwealth markets. Discussions focused on fostering partnerships across key sectors such as finance, infrastructure, and technology, positioning Dubai as a gateway for Commonwealth businesses looking to expand in the region.

Lord Swire was also pleased to meet Faizal Bhana, Director – Middle East, Africa, and India at Jersey Finance. As the Government of Jersey is a Strategic Partner of CWEIC, they discussed enhancing collaboration across shared interests in the Middle East, including the GCC, Africa, and India, with a particular focus on financial services and investment facilitation.

In the evening, Lord Swire attended a panel discussion and networking reception hosted by the India Commonwealth Trade Council and the Indian Economic Trade Organisation (IETO).

James Harris opened the session, followed by Dr Asif Iqbal, Global President of IETO, who spoke on leveraging economic partnerships for growth. The High Commissioner of Uganda to the UK was also present, reinforcing Africa-Commonwealth trade ties. Lord Swire highlighted the UAE’s strategic role in Commonwealth trade, positioning Dubai as a global financial hub. With India as the Commonwealth’s largest economy, enhancing trade agreements remained a key focus.

Business leaders from Dubai’s agribusiness and real estate sectors, including a major UAE importer, discussed expanding trade with India and other Commonwealth nations. The event showcased investment opportunities in infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture.

On the second day, Lord Swire and James met with Martin Pedersen, Chairman of the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) Dubai, to discuss opportunities for Commonwealth businesses to establish and expand within Dubai’s dynamic free zone ecosystem. IFZA plays a crucial role in attracting international investment by offering competitive business licensing solutions and strategic market access.

He also met with H.E. Sheikh Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, a global leader in logistics and trade infrastructure. Their discussions focused on strengthening supply chain connectivity between Commonwealth markets and leveraging DP World’s extensive port and trade network to facilitate greater economic integration.