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ABU DHABI: The UAE’s growing role as a global hub for innovation and diplomacy took center stage on Wednesday as ministers gathered for the first Emirates International Press Conference, outlining bold plans for artificial intelligence integration, non-oil economic growth, and peace-building in conflict zones.

UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammad Al-Gergawi lamented the UAE’s five main principles, which are economic openness, balanced political relationships, agility in government, technology as a key driver of development and progress and human-centric development. 

Al-Gergawi said that “77.5 percent of the GDP in the first half of 2025 came from the non-oil economy, and by 2031 we want to increase the non-oil economy by 15 percent.” 

He highlighted the UAE’s role during Covid-19 and said its legislation was adapted quickly during that period. 

“Eighty percent of legislation was updated in the past three years … our decisions in the UAE are quick in its execution and clear in its goals,” he added. 

With technology as a focus in government, the UAE centered AI in its education programs and through various sectors. 

“The UAE has made AI part of its school curriculum. We are the nunber one country (that) is adopting AI in the workplace according to a Microsoft report published three days ago,” he said. 

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the president of the UAE, said the UAE will remain as a diplomatic entity to help resolve conflict in the region. 

“The Iranian attack and Israeli attack on Qatar, is not just an attack on the state of Qatar but also a threat to the Gulf region. We need to take more comprehensive solutions and look holistically at the safety of the region using diplomacy,” he added.

Gargash emphasized the UAE’s position in calling for the establishment a Palestinian state and said it is a right for Palestinians and an essential step towards achieving peace. 

“We see clearly the role played in the UAE in Gaza through elevating the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza. We believe that we will continue these efforts in Sudan where people are being displaced and suffering food insecurity,” he said. 

In Sudan, Gargash affirmed the urge for a lasting ceasefire and reiterated the UAE’s condemnation of the atrocities committed in El-Fashir.

“The UAE condemns all atrocities committed in El-Fashir and across Sudan — including allegations of chemical weapons use. These claims must be investigated, and those responsible must be held to account.

“We want negotiations. We want a transition to civilian rule. And most importantly, we need a ceasefire,” he added.

Minister of State for International Corporation Reem Al-Hashimy touched on a similar sentiment, sharing the UAE’s role in humanitarian aid in the region and globally in countries including Palestine, Yemen, Sudan, Ukraine, Pakistan and Afghanistan. 

“The UAE has adopted a clear approach in its foreign policy based on peace and joint comprehensive responsibility … The UAE spared no effort in helping those in need, 370 billion dirhams ($100 billion) in aid on the international level,” said Al-Hashimy. 

UAE minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq said the UAE is working towards becoming one of the strongest economies globally. 

“The UAE has achieved its status as the leader of the innovation hub between the east and the west,” said bin Touq. 

Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence Omar bin Sultan Al-Olama affirmed the UAE’s position in being a leader for technological innovation globally and said the UAE remains on its path in developing its AI sector further.