On June 20, 2024, a delegation from Trends Research & Advisory (TRENDS) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, led by CEO Mohamed Al Ali, visited the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China (RDCY). The delegation was warmly received by Wang Wen, Executive Dean of RDCY, who provided an overview of the institute's international initiatives and past accomplishments. The discussions focused on pressing international issues, the Belt and Road Initiative, sustainable development, and think tank cooperation.

Mr. Mohamed Al Ali emphasized the significance of this visit to RDCY, noting the importance of engaging with prominent Chinese think tanks. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by RDCY and reiterated his commitment to deepening cooperation. Awadh Al Abreiki, Chief Global Officer, provided insights into the key functions and activities of TRENDS, highlighting its readiness to enhance collaboration with its Chinese counterparts. He underscored the potential for this meeting to foster practical cooperation between the UAE and China, particularly in advancing the Belt and Road Initiative and facilitating people-to-people bonds.

Wang Wen welcomed the TRENDS delegation, acknowledging the UAE's pivotal role as a partner in the Belt and Road Initiative. He stressed the importance of strengthening China-UAE relations through think tank collaborations. Prof. Wang participated in several online meetings organized by TRENDS during the COVID-19 pandemic, and he was glad to receive an in-person visit from TRENDS, which further cemented ties. He highlighted the crucial role of such partnerships in steering the future trajectory of the Belt and Road Initiative over the next decade.

During the meeting, both sides agreed on enhancing cooperation in sustainable development and the Belt and Road Initiative, conducting joint research, and organizing conferences. They pledged to continue fostering humanistic exchanges between China and other nations. The meeting concluded with an exchange of research findings and publications.

The delegation from TRENDS included Fahad Al Mahri, Head of the Dubai Trends sector; Fatouh Haykil, Scientific Advisor; and Abdulaziz Al Shehhi, Senior Researcher. From RDCY, participants included Yang Qingqing, Deputy Dean; Cai Tongjuan, Director of Macro Research Department, Research Fellow; Li Shanshan, Research Fellow, Industrial Research Department; Chen Xiuhao, Assistant Researcher; and Han Jiaxiu, Assistant Researcher.

Established in 2014 and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, TRENDS Research & Advisory is an independent think tank specializing in geopolitics, strategic development, international relations, security and defense, economy and energy, social change, and cultural development. It provides expert research and policy advice to government entities, the private sector, and the public. TRENDS is dedicated to promoting exchanges between the Middle East and China, enhancing think tank cooperation, and fostering knowledge sharing and stable bilateral relations.