Ras Al Khaimah, Dec 5 (NationPress) The 17th Verona Eurasian Economic Forum commenced on Thursday in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates (UAE), uniting policymakers, business leaders, and scholars from both Europe and Asia.

Centered around the theme of "New Cooperation Architecture for Contemporary Economy," the forum delves into pressing global matters such as energy, finance, infrastructure, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, food security, and environmental protection.

During his keynote address at the opening ceremony, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, a Supreme Council Member of the UAE and ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, underscored the UAE's remarkable progress over the past decades.

He pointed out the nation's transformation into a center for global economic, cultural, and tourism activities, along with its continuous efforts to enhance its role as a critical player in the international economy.

"The UAE is actively creating a business-friendly atmosphere to facilitate broad international cooperation," Sheikh Saud stated, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

In a letter of congratulations to the forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin remarked that the forum's theme reflects the increasing demand for a global economic system grounded in equality and justice.

Putin urged a shift towards economic frameworks devoid of discrimination, sanctions, and undue pressures, advocating for mutual benefits rather than advantages for select nations.

Antonio Fallico, president of the Conoscere Eurasia Association, the organizing entity of the forum, pointed to the inevitable transition from a unipolar world order to multipolarity. He emphasized the growing significance of regional globalization and cross-regional markets, highlighting the necessity for collaboration in light of evolving geopolitical circumstances.

Founded in 2007 in Verona, Italy, the forum seeks to promote economic and cultural connections throughout Eurasia. This year's event, co-hosted by the Conoscere Eurasia Association, the Roscongress Foundation, and the UAE Federation of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry, will continue until December 6.