The Port and Logistics Dimension of the UAE’s Strategy in Africa

Abstract

The Russian Federation, expanding cooperation with the countries of the “world majority”, pays special attention to cooperation with Africa. Moscow has held two summits and adopted specific action plans for the development of relations with the states of the continent. However, further progress rests on limitations and difficulties of a financial and economic nature, problems of access to the markets of African countries, including our grain products. It is important to study and take into account the proven experience of third countries in these matters. In this regard, a special place is occupied by the study of approaches followed by the UAE, which has a well-developed and proven strategy for promoting its interests in Africa based on the accelerated development of port and logistics infrastructure, assistance to international and intercontinental trade. The article contains an analysis of the UAE’s strategy towards Africa, with an emphasis on its port and logistics dimension. Special attention is paid to the study of the experience of the Emirati port operators. The UAE’s activity in certain sub-regions of Africa is considered; the existing problems and components of the success of specific projects are noted. The question is raised about the possible combining the efforts of the two countries: the UAE - in the field of port and logistics facilities, the Russian Federation - in the field of their physical protection.