Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah attends official reception at China's Belt and Road Forum

Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi later toured the Chinese capital's Imperial Palace Museum

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  Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, toured Beijing's Imperial Palace Museum as part of his visit to China for the Belt and Road Forum on International Co-operation. All photos: Presidential Court

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  The Palace Museum is housed within the Forbidden City in Beijing

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  The RAK Ruler meets young visitors at the cultural spot

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  Sheikh Saud tours the Imperial Palace Museum

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  Sheikh Saud inspects a treasure trove of artefacts

Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, on Tuesday attended an official state reception hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Co-operation in Beijing.

The two-day international gathering, which concludes on Wednesday, marks the 10th anniversary of China's flagship infrastructure project, which aims to strengthen global trade links.

President Xi's landmark strategy combines a land "economic belt" and a "maritime silk road" to link China with South-East, South and Central Asia, the Arabian Gulf, North Africa and then Europe.

More than 130 countries and international organisations are participating in the forum, which is expected to produce a series of trade agreements.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is among the global leaders taking part in the event.

Mr Putin told Chinese state media ahead of his visit that he sees BRI projects as a sign of China's “desire for co-operation” abroad. He praised the initiative, saying it is a platform for international co-operation, where “no one imposes anything on others”.

Sheikh Saud conveyed the greetings of President Sheikh Mohamed to the Chinese leader, expressing his hope for the summit to achieve its goal to bolster economic development and forge closer ties between the international community.

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered the opening speech of the forum, marking 10 years of China's belt and road strategy. Photo: AP

President XI, in turn, called for the UAE's continued progress and prosperity.

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah took part in discussions with a number of world leaders during the high-level event.

He was accompanied at the reception by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change and Cop28 President- designate.

Sheikh Saud toured Beijing's landmark Imperial Palace Museum, housed in the capital's renowned Forbidden City, as part of his visit.

He was briefed on the rich history of the spectacular monument, which served as the seat of power of Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The RAK Ruler inspected a treasure trove of historic artefacts on display at the cultural attraction, highlighting that some archeological items unearthed in Ras Al Khaimah were on display.

Sheikh Saud was joined on the tour by Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Youth; Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Hussain Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China.

Ahmad Al Falasi, Minister of Education is also part of the Emirati delegation in China.