The UAE and the World Bank Group (WBG) have discussed expanding cooperation across development, financial, and innovation-focused initiatives during a high-level meeting in Dubai.
Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, UAE Minister of State for Financial Affairs, met with Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank Group, at the Ministry of Finance headquarters in Dubai to review bilateral cooperation and explore ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership between both sides.
The meeting was attended by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance; Ali Abdullah Sharafi, Assistant Under-Secretary for International Financial Relations at the Ministry of Finance; Ousmane Dione, World Bank Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan; Ayat Soliman, World Bank Director of Strategy and Operations; and Iva Haml, World Bank Group Resident Representative in the UAE, along with other officials and specialists from both sides.
During the meeting, Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, highlighted the UAE’s partnership with the World Bank Group, based on knowledge exchange, capacity building, and shared development priorities.
Al Hussaini noted that the Ministry of Finance continues to work on expanding cooperation with the World Bank Group to support government efficiency, sustainable development, and joint initiatives across key economic and development sectors.
Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini underscored the increasing role of innovation, artificial intelligence, and knowledge exchange in supporting development objectives and improving productivity and institutional performance.
Cooperation in areas such as financial inclusion, water, urban development, and zero bureaucracy reflects ongoing efforts to develop practical solutions for government and development challenges.
Joint initiatives and programs
The two sides reviewed progress on the National Talent Development Program at the World Bank Group, which was launched in April as part of ongoing cooperation between the UAE and the World Bank Group.
They also discussed Abu Dhabi’s selection to host the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), noting its significance in reflecting confidence in the UAE’s organizational capabilities and international standing.
Both sides further explored opportunities to expand cooperation across areas of mutual interest and enhance coordination on existing and future initiatives.
