UAE, EC Presidents discuss ties, regional developments

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed ways to develop and expand the relationship between the UAE and the European Union (EU) with Charles Michel, President of the European Council (EC), during a meeting in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

The discussions focused on how to serve the common interests of all sides and foster growth and prosperity.

During the meeting, which took place at Qasr Al Shati, His Highness emphasised the deep ties between the UAE and the European Union, as well as the ongoing commitment to strengthening relations to support shared goals and promote peace and development at both the regional and global levels.

The meeting also touched upon the upcoming Gulf Cooperation Council-European Union summit scheduled for October in Brussels. His Highness and Mr Michel emphasised the significance of the summit especially in economic and developmental areas, and setting the stage for further progress in the years ahead.

Additionally, they reviewed several regional and international issues of mutual concern, particularly developments in the Middle East. They underscored the importance of reaching an urgent ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip to allow for adequate humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of its residents.

They also stressed the need to de-escalate tensions in the West Bank and to push for a permanent and stable peace process based on the two-state solution.

Both sides emphasised the seriousness of escalating tensions in the region and the critical need for international efforts to contain and prevent the expansion of conflicts, which pose a threat to regional security and stability.

His Highness reiterated the UAE's commitment to cooperating with the European Union and other concerned parties to enhance the humanitarian response to the worsening situation in Gaza and support regional stability.

Charles Michel praised the UAE's position in support of Gulf-European cooperation and its humanitarian role in Gaza. He also commended the UAE’s contributions to peace and stability in the Middle East and emphasised the European Union’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and coordination with the UAE on various shared concerns.