ABU DHABI - The third annual Hili Forum 2026 commenced today in Abu Dhabi, bringing together prominent decision-makers, senior officials, diplomats, academics, and international experts. This year's gathering is organized through a collaboration between the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA).
Under the central theme "Gulf at Crossroads: Conflict, Consequences and Course Correction," the forum arrives at a critical juncture marked by swift global and regional changes. Discussions focus on three primary areas: geopolitics, geoeconomics, and geotechnology. These pillars address the Gulf's rising significance as a strategic intersection for security, trade, energy, tech, and global corridors.
In his special address, Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, emphasized that the region cannot perpetually endure a state of tension between war and peace. He stressed that long-term stability must be governed by international law and clear, shared rules. Dr. Gargash called for serious de-escalation, long-term diplomacy, and a transparent pathway addressing the verification, conditions, and compliance consequences of Iran's nuclear program.
Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the ECSSR, remarked that the forum highlights the Gulf's critical role in reinforcing global stability. He noted that the event serves as a platform to foster sustainable political, legal, and economic cooperation to improve risk assessment and construct appropriate responses. Meanwhile, Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, observed a modern paradox of increased connectivity paired with growing global fragmentation. Mladenov noted that the Gulf is currently helping shape the future international order by maintaining connections and building institutional trust across divides.
The inaugural day included a plenary session titled "Gulf Regional Security Complexes," featuring Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson and Adviser to the Prime Minister, Dr. Majed Al Ansari, and Vice Admiral John W. "Fozzie" Miller, former Commander of the US Naval Forces Central Command and the US Fifth Fleet. The panel was moderated by Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of AGDA.
Other notable Day 1 events included fireside chats with Nickolay Mladenov and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, alongside specialized youth and public networking sessions. Prominent attendees included National Media Authority Chairman Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Federal National Council Committee Chairman Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi.
The forum will continue tomorrow, turning its attention to technological competition, digital transformations, and the role of middle powers in a shifting global landscape.
