Emirati Businessman Mohammed Al-Sharqi Participates in Krans Montana Forum in Rabat

The Crown Prince of Fujairah announced that the UAE emirate is ready to play a key role in the emerging Atlantic space, thanks to its strategic location as a bridge between East and West. Speaking at the 40th Crans Montana Forum in Morocco, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi emphasized how geographical positioning can create new opportunities for global cooperation in energy, trade, and critical minerals.

The Crown Prince described Fujairah as more than just a shipping hub. "The emirate sits at the heart of global shipping and logistics industries, making it a safe and reliable link between the Middle East, Africa, and the wider world," he said during his keynote address in Rabat.

But Sheikh Mohammed had bigger ambitions in mind. He argued that the New Atlantic space should be "more than just a market." The region has seen plenty of divisions and challenges that still exist today, he noted. "As we look to the future, we must not ignore the lessons of the past. History shows that lasting peace is built on trust, dialogue, and mutual respect, not confrontation."

This perspective matters because it signals how smaller Gulf states are positioning themselves in global trade networks. Fujairah has been building its reputation as an alternative to traditional shipping routes, especially as geopolitical tensions affect other maritime corridors.

The forum brought together some of the world's most dynamic economies to discuss partnerships in energy and critical minerals. For Fujairah, this represents a chance to expand beyond its traditional role as an oil storage and bunkering hub.

During the event, Fujairah signed a cooperation agreement with Morocco's Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development. The deal focuses on earth sciences, mineral resources, and knowledge sharing. Ali Mohammed Qasim, Director General of Fujairah Natural Resources Authority, called it a strategic step that opens new opportunities for Arab cooperation in sustainable energy and mining.

The timing is significant. As global supply chains face disruption and countries look for alternative energy sources, regional partnerships like this one could reshape trade flows. Morocco has been investing heavily in renewable energy and mining, while Fujairah offers logistics expertise and strategic location.

Jean Paul Carteron, president of the Crans Montana Forum, praised Fujairah's participation and highlighted the emirate's growing international role. The forum, established in 1986, aims to create new spaces for cooperation and peace by bringing together both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

For investors and traders, Fujairah's push into the Atlantic space represents a broader trend. Gulf states are diversifying their economic partnerships beyond traditional allies, seeking new markets and supply chains. This could mean more investment opportunities in infrastructure, energy projects, and logistics networks connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.