Abu Dhabi, UAE – The UAE and South Korea discussed ways to enhance strategic cooperation in the energy, nuclear energy, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies sectors. This came during a meeting between His Excellency Eng. Sharif Al-Ulama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, and His Excellency Jung Kwan Kim, Minister of Trade, Industry and Resources of the Republic of Korea.
During the meeting, the two sides stressed the strength of the special strategic partnership between the two countries. Praising the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant as one of the most prominent models of successful international cooperation in the peaceful nuclear energy sector. Its achievements have enhanced energy security and supported the sustainable development process.
Explore new areas of cooperation
The two parties discussed opportunities to build on the success of the Barakah project by exploring new areas of cooperation that include advanced nuclear technologies. And modular small nuclear reactors, which enhances the global position of the two countries in the nuclear energy sector.
The meeting also discussed the future of global energy security and the importance of building flexible and diverse energy systems capable of keeping pace with rapid changes. In addition to exploring opportunities to expand cooperation in the fields of oil and gas, refining, petrochemicals, liquefied natural gas, and energy infrastructure.
Engineer Sharif Al Ulama reviewed the UAE’s goals in the energy sector, most notably raising the production capacity of renewable energy to 22 gigawatts by 2031. In addition to battery energy storage projects, there is the importance of adopting a balanced energy mix that combines renewable, nuclear, and conventional energy sources to enhance energy security and sustainability.
energy sector development
The two sides also discussed the growing role of artificial intelligence in developing the energy sector, especially in the areas of data centers and energy efficiency. The Ministry reviewed its efforts to enhance the sustainability of data centers by applying energy efficiency standards, employing smart cooling solutions supported by artificial intelligence, and developing planning tools that support future digital infrastructure.
The meeting discussed the UAE’s efforts to lead international cooperation in the field of energy efficiency through the Global Energy Efficiency Alliance (GEEA). Which was launched by the state with the aim of enhancing knowledge exchange and developing joint policies and projects between governments, the private sector and financial institutions.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the two sides agreed to continue joint coordination and explore new opportunities for cooperation within the framework of the special strategic partnership between the UAE and South Korea. To support innovation and sustainability and enhance the economic prosperity of both countries.
