Move Deepens UAE–Island State Cooperation in Trade, Resilience and Clean Energy.
Koror, Palau: The UAE has officially become a Strategic Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), opening a new phase in its longstanding relationship with Pacific Island nations and strengthening years of close cooperation across the region.
The partnership was confirmed during the PIF Leaders’ Retreat, held as part of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Koror, Palau. With this development, the UAE joins 12 existing Strategic Partners of the Forum: China, the United States, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, India, Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea and the European Union.
The announcement comes after Noura bint Mohamed Al Kaabi, Minister of State, represented President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, held in Koror from 30 August to 4 September 2026.
The UAE’s designation as a Strategic Partner highlights its enduring engagement with Pacific nations, particularly its collaboration with Small Island Developing States in key areas such as renewable energy, climate resilience, education and sustainable development.
The Strategic Partner status will strengthen engagement between the UAE and PIF member states, creating fresh opportunities for trade, investment and business collaboration. It will also support greater knowledge sharing in key areas including the energy transition, digital transformation, connectivity and climate resilience.
Commenting on the milestone, Al Kaabi said the recognition reflects years of strong cooperation between the UAE and Pacific nations, built on mutual respect and a common commitment to sustainable development. She noted that the new phase of partnership is particularly significant for the UAE and demonstrates the strength of its relationships across the region. Al Kaabi added that the UAE looks forward to further strengthening cooperation with the Pacific Islands Forum and its member states to advance shared goals for sustainable development and prosperity across the Pacific.
Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Caribbean and Pacific States, said the UAE’s engagement with the Pacific has been shaped by the vision and guidance of the country’s leadership. He added that Strategic Partner status will create further opportunities for cooperation with Pacific nations, enhance connectivity and support joint efforts towards building a more resilient and prosperous future.
