On January 17, 2012, Premier Wen Jiabao met with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.

Wen said that the UAE is a good brother and good partner of China in the Middle East and Gulf region. The two countries share deep political trust and close trade and personnel exchanges. In face of the international financial crisis and the changing regional situation, the two sides have been looking at bilateral relations from a strategic perspective in recent years. Wen said the aim of his current visit is to establish strategic partnership between the two countries, promote mutually beneficial cooperation and cultural exchanges, and enhance mutual understanding and friendship with the Arab world. He believes that with joint efforts of both sides, China-UAE exchanges and cooperation will achieve long-term, stable and comprehensive development and will not only bring more benefits to both peoples, but also contribute to the revitalization of the Silk Road. China is glad to see stability and prosperity in the UAE and supports the UAE to play an active role in regional affairs.

Mohammed said that the UAE-China relations are developing well and can serve as a good example of state-to-state relationship. Premier Wen's visit will write a new chapter in bilateral relations. The UAE will keep a close eye on China and comprehensively strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China.

After the meeting, the two leaders jointly attended the signing ceremony of bilateral cooperation documents.