DUBAI – Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini held talks with Emirates Airline leadership in Dubai, focusing on aviation, infrastructure and strategic partnerships for economic growth.
On day two of the World Governments Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the PM held a bilateral meeting with His Royal Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.
The discussions focused on aviation and potential strategic partnerships in tourism, logistics and related sectors. The PM emphasised that Eswatini is looking for long-term partnerships that will support sustainable development.
“Eswatini is not looking for hand-outs, but strategic partnerships that can support infrastructure development, logistics, aviation and tourism,” said Dlamini.
He expressed interest in tapping into the experience and institutional knowledge of Emirates and other United Arab Emirates entities, particularly in areas where the airline has global expertise.
During the meeting, the PM outlined plans to modernise and develop Eswatini’s airport infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of learning from Emirates’ global experience in aviation development and operations.
He also shared the kingdom’s inter-modal transport vision, which includes linking the airport to railway infrastructure. This plan involves connecting approximately 80 kilometres to Maputo through mountainous terrain, while also strengthening road links to the eastern side of South Africa.
Plans to expand dry ports were also discussed as part of the broader logistics strategy.
The PM stressed the importance of establishing partnerships with airlines of Emirates’ scale to stimulate tourism growth and broader economic activity.
He noted that improved air connectivity would support Eswatini’s efforts to attract more international visitors.
“We are keen to work with airlines that can open access to East Africa and international destinations from Eswatini,” he said.
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PM engages UAE on trade cooperation
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Dlamini met UAE officials in Dubai to discuss trade, investment and cooperation in key economic sectors.
Dlamini held a bilateral engagement with the United Arab Emirates’ Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit in Dubai.
The meeting focused on exchanging views on Eswatini’s economic performance and exploring opportunities for trade, cooperation and investment. Key areas discussed included agriculture, energy, logistics, food security and industrial development.
Dr Al Zeyoudi expressed strong interest in food security, particularly in meat production. He explained that the UAE works closely with farmers by improving production capabilities, introducing modern technology and ensuring guaranteed off-take.
“This approach supports our food security objectives while also driving economic development at community level,” said Dr Al Zeyoudi.
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