In the dynamic landscape of international diplomacy, building bridges between nations requires vision, dedication, and a deep understanding of both cultures and global affairs. Today, we are honored to present an exclusive interview with Jorge Archila, the Ambassador of Guatemala to the United Arab Emirates. Ambassador Archila brings to his post a wealth of experience, having served in various diplomatic capacities for over a decade-including roles as Consul General in the United States and Vice-Consul at multiple Guatemalan consulates-where he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering cooperation, supporting communities abroad, and advancing Guatemala’s interests on the world stage.
Since his appointment as Ambassador to the UAE in late 2024, Ambassador Archila has played a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties, promoting cultural exchange, and representing Guatemala’s values and aspirations in the Gulf region. His background in business administration and finance, combined with hands-on experience in both public service and private enterprise, gives him a unique perspective on diplomacy and international collaboration.
In this conversation, Ambassador Archila shares insights into his diplomatic journey, the evolving relationship between Guatemala and the UAE, and his vision for the future of this important partnership.
As the newly appointed Ambassador of Guatemala to the UAE, what is your vision for strengthening the relationship between the two countries?
As the newly appointed Ambassador of Guatemala to the United Arab Emirates, our country’s vision is to deepen and diversify the bilateral relationship of more than 32 years. The Government of Guatemala aims to build a robust partnership beyond traditional diplomacy by focusing on trade, investment, culture, education, and innovation. Guatemala has immense natural wealth, cultural richness, and economic potential, and we believe the UAE’s dynamic economy and visionary leadership offer a unique opportunity for collaboration. Our vision is to position Guatemala as a strategic partner in the Middle East and to ensure our shared values of development, sustainability, and progress serve as the foundation for a thriving relationship.
What are your immediate priorities as you begin your tenure in the UAE?
President Bernardo Arévalo’s priorities in the UAE and the Gulf Region, include enhancing economic ties, promoting Guatemalan exports, and encouraging Emirati investment in key sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, tourism, and infrastructure. Additionally, the vision is to establish stronger cultural and educational exchanges to foster mutual understanding between both countries.
The strengthening of cooperation in multilateral forums, like IRENA, where Guatemala and the UAE share commitments to global stability, peace, and sustainable development is also a priority for this administration.
What are your first impressions of the UAE, and how do you see these aligning with Guatemala’s regional goals?
The UAE has impressed me with its remarkable transformation, innovative spirit, and commitment to excellence. Its cities reflect a forward-looking vision that aligns with Guatemala’s aspiration for growth and modernization. There is an alignment between the UAE’s achievements and Guatemala’s goals, particularly in areas like sustainable development, economic diversification, and infrastructure development. The UAE’s emphasis on tolerance and cultural inclusivity also resonates with Guatemala’s rich heritage of more than 3,000 years and diverse identity.
How do you plan to promote Guatemalan exports and encourage UAE investment in Guatemala’s key sectors?
To promote Guatemalan exports, the Embassy is looking to actively engage with Emirati businesses, chambers of commerce, and government entities to showcase Guatemala’s premium products such as coffee, cardamom, and other agricultural products like shrimp, fruits, vegetables, and also textiles. By organizing trade missions, business forums, and participation in world class events like World of Coffee and Gulfood, the Embassy will position Guatemalan products in the region.
Additionally, we will work to highlight Guatemala’s potential as an investment destination, particularly in renewable energy, agribusiness, tourism, and logistics. By facilitating business-to-business connections and enhancing awareness of Guatemala’s opportunities, we can unlock significant bilateral trade and investment. For example, the tourism sector can be improved by participating in prestigious fairs like the Arabian Travel Market, which promote Guatemala as an ideal tourism destination.
Are there any specific initiatives you aim to launch to introduce Guatemalan culture to the UAE?
Cultural diplomacy will play a central role during this tenure. Guatemala boasts a rich cultural heritage, from our ancient Maya civilization to vibrant modern arts and music. We plan to organize cultural events, art exhibitions, culinary showcases, and folkloric performances to introduce Guatemala’s traditions and contemporary culture to the UAE.
Initiatives such as “Guatemala Week” can highlight our coffee culture, textiles, and artistry, creating a deeper cultural connection between both nations. Collaboration with Emirati cultural institutions will also be key in fostering this exchange.
What areas of collaboration, such as trade, education, or tourism, do you see as untapped opportunities for Guatemala and the UAE?
There are numerous untapped opportunities for collaboration between Guatemala and the UAE. In trade, Guatemala’s agricultural products, such as coffee, cardamom, and shrimp among others, can meet growing the UAE demand for quality imports. Another area where we can work together is the Tourism sector. Guatemala, with its unparalleled natural beauty, Mayan heritage, and ecotourism potential, can attract Emirati travelers who are seeking new destinations, culture, and adventures. As for Education and knowledge-sharing initiatives, we can establish a cooperation scheme through scholarships, student exchange programs, and collaboration between universities. Additionally, cooperation in technology and renewable energy can drive sustainable economic development.
The UAE is a global leader in sustainability and technology. Do you foresee partnerships in these areas benefiting Guatemala?
Guatemala recognizes that, particularly the UAE initiatives in renewable energy like Masdar City and its net-zero carbon ambitions, are a great opportunity for learning and sharing best practices and collaboration in the field. We foresee collaboration in renewable energy projects, particularly in geothermal and solar energy, where Guatemala has significant potential. Joint ventures in sustainable agriculture, water resource management, and innovative technologies will allow us to address shared challenges, such as climate change and food security, while advancing our respective development goals.
Furthermore, my recent appointment as the first Permanent Representative of Guatemala to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) marks a significant milestone in our commitment to renewable energy and sustainability.
This role enables Guatemala to actively engage with global leaders and initiatives, fostering collaboration and driving action to implement impactful projects that align with our government’s priorities and international sustainability goals.
Are there specific aspects of the UAE’s development model that you believe Guatemala can learn from or adapt?
The UAE’s development model, characterized by its visionary leadership, economic diversification, and focus on infrastructure, provides valuable lessons for Guatemala. The UAE has successfully created a knowledge-based economy by investing in innovation, technology, and education. Guatemala can adopt these practices to accelerate its own economic growth, particularly in infrastructure development, public-private partnerships, and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, the UAE’s ability to attract global investment and talent is something we can emulate to enhance our competitiveness on the world stage.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals for fostering a stronger partnership between Guatemala and the UAE?
Looking ahead, our long-term goals include establishing Guatemala as a key trade and investment partner for the UAE, fostering innovation-driven collaboration, and deepening people-to-people connections. Guatemala aims to solidify agreements in sectors like investment, trade, renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism that will yield mutual benefits for both nations. Furthermore, we envision Guatemala becoming a bridge for UAE businesses seeking to access the Latin American market due to its strategic location and connectivity to the largest markets in the Americas, by nurturing a relationship based on trust, mutual respect, and shared aspirations.
The relationship between Guatemala and the UAE has immense potential.
Through economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared innovation, we are confident we can achieve a productive partnership that serves as a model for collaboration between Latin America and the Middle East.
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