The SCO Trade Council has announced the appointment of Mr. Nikil Kumar Goyal as its Honorary Trade Commissioner for the United Arab Emirates, marking an important step in strengthening trade and investment engagement between SCO member countries and the UAE.
The installation ceremony was held during the Conference of the United Diplomatic Council in Abu Dhabi on January 28, attended by members of the diplomatic corps, international trade leaders, and institutional stakeholders.
The Certificate of Appointment was formally presented by Ms. Maryna Shavialiova, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus in the UAE. Belarus is a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), adding diplomatic significance to the ceremony, It may be pertinent to note that Belarus became a full member of the ‘SCO Family’ in 2024, and later was the first to formalize the status of BRICS partner state. Belarus also chairs the Eurasian Economic Union for the year covering central asian countries that are strategically close to the SCO region.
“I extend my warm congratulations to Mr. Nikil Kumar Goyal on his appointment as the Honorary Trade Commissioner of the SCO Trade Council for the United Arab Emirates. The UAE occupies a pivotal position in global trade, and the Indian community has long played a vital and constructive role in strengthening economic ties not only within the UAE but also across SCO member countries. Mr. Goyal’s appointment reflects our confidence in his ability to further deepen these connections, promote inclusive trade, and advance cooperation between SCO economies and the wider international business community.”
— Dr. Kemal Yildirim
Secretary General
SCO Trade Council
As Honorary Trade Commissioner, Mr. Goyal will work to promote bilateral and multilateral trade, investment facilitation, and economic cooperation between SCO member states and the UAE. His appointment reflects the SCO Trade Council’s focus on expanding strategic trade representation in key global markets. The UAE’s role as a leading international hub for commerce, logistics, and finance makes it a vital partner for SCO countries seeking deeper economic integration and collaboration.
The UAE’s relations with the SCO have evolved significantly, particularly with the recent elevation to Dialogue partner status. This status reflects the UAE’s commitment to multilateralism and its recognition of the SCO’s role in fostering cooperation among member states. The UAE’s engagement with the SCO countries is expected to enhance its standing in the international community and strengthen its position as a key player in the region. This will also enhance its access to economic and trade forums with participation in discussions on vital issues especially the SCO Trade council activities concerning trade, cultural exchange and education. UAE also has a large Indian population that is spread in various other fields that can strengthen this partnership. SCO Trade council has its representative offices in major Indian cities.
About the SCO Trade Council
The SCO Trade Council promotes trade, investment, and industrial cooperation among Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states and partner economies, supporting sustainable growth and cross-border economic collaboration. Registered in Washington DC, it serves to promote peace, harmony, cultural and economic relations between all SCO countries.