RAS AL KHAIMAH, 23rd April, 2025 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has affirmed that international partnerships based on mutual respect and shared interests are vital to enhancing the UAE's and Ras Al Khaimah's global stature.

He added that these partnerships also reflect the Emirate's vision and long-term growth strategy, which focuses on enhancing economic cooperation, supporting the exchange of global knowledge and skills and developing innovative solutions to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability across key sectors such as industry, energy, technology, environment and other vital fields.

His remarks came during a reception with an economic delegation from Lahti Regional Development Company (LADEC Ltd.), owned by the Lahti Region of Finland, in the presence of Tuula Yrjl, Ambassador of Finland to the UAE.

The RAK Ruler stated that Ras Al Khaimah's strategy is to further expand international partnerships, highlighting that true progress and lasting prosperity can only be achieved through collaboration and economic cooperation - a guiding principle that supports constructive global relations while harnessing opportunities, broadening avenues for knowledge exchange and driving meaningful progress towards comprehensive sustainable development.

H.H. Sheikh Saud welcomed the visiting delegation, discussing the bonds of friendship with Finland and exploring ways to strengthen economic and investment relations across various sectors.

The meeting also included a review of the investment and economic opportunities that Ras Al Khaimah can offer Finnish companies, as part of the Emirate's thriving investment climate to support the establishment and expansion of international businesses.

Following the meeting, H.H. witnessed the signing of the MoU between the Government of Ras Al Khaimah and the Lahti Region, aimed at promoting the exchange of knowledge and innovation in areas such as the circular economy, sustainable materials, eco-friendly production technologies, startups, technological development between universities, research and development in bio-based products and processes, waste management, recycling technologies, green buildings and sustainable construction.

The MoU was signed by Mohammed Omran Al Shamsi, Special Advisor to H.H. Sheikh Saud, on behalf of the Ras Al Khaimah Government, and Jarno Saarinen, Director of Entrepreneurship and Business Development Services for the Lahti Region.

The agreement outlines mutual support for investment and business opportunities, while reinforcing both parties' commitment to global sustainability goals, including the promotion of e-mobility and smart city solutions.

The Finnish delegation thanked Sheikh Saud for his warm hospitality and noted that the MoU represents a significant step forward in establishing a long-term, fruitful partnership. They also underscored the growing depth of friendship and economic collaboration between the UAE and Finland, which opens new avenues for development in both countries.