Vice President Attends Eurasia Economic Forum 2026 in Kazakhstan on Behalf of State Leader

Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, participated in the Eurasia Economic Forum 2026 in Kazakhstan on May 29, 2026. Al Zeyoudi attended the event representing the President of the United Arab Emirates, according to reporting by Al Bayan.

The forum serves as a primary platform for discussing economic cooperation, trade integration and investment opportunities across the Eurasian region, bringing together government officials, business leaders, and international organizations.

Strategic Economic Engagement

The participation of the UAE at the forum underscores the state’s ongoing strategy to expand its economic footprint in Central Asia and the broader Eurasian landscape. The UAE has focused on diversifying its trade partnerships and increasing non-oil exports as part of its long-term economic vision.

Central to this strategy is the pursuit of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). These agreements are designed to reduce tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and create a more seamless flow of goods and services between the UAE and its global partners.

UAE-Kazakhstan Relations

Kazakhstan remains a key strategic partner for the UAE in Central Asia. The two nations have historically cooperated in sectors including energy, logistics, and agriculture. Kazakhstan’s position as a gateway to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) makes it a critical hub for UAE businesses seeking entry into the markets of member states.

The UAE’s presence at the 2026 forum aligns with efforts to strengthen bilateral investment flows and explore new avenues for cooperation in technology and sustainable development.

By engaging with Eurasian leaders, the UAE aims to secure more resilient supply chains and enhance food security through expanded agricultural partnerships in the region.

Regional Trade Integration

The Eurasia Economic Forum typically focuses on the challenges and opportunities of regional integration. Key topics often include the digitalization of trade, the development of transport corridors, and the harmonization of customs regulations.

The UAE’s involvement in these discussions reflects its role as a global logistics hub, leveraging its ports and aviation infrastructure to connect Asian markets with Europe and Africa.

The representation of the UAE President by Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi highlights the high-level diplomatic priority given to these economic ties and the intent to formalize further trade frameworks with Eurasian counterparts.