UAE President Meets EU Chief to Boost Cooperation

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with His Excellency António Costa, President of the European Council, to discuss the growing cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. The meeting, held at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, focused on expanding bilateral relations, supporting shared development goals, and deepening coordination in political, economic, and humanitarian areas. The visit reflected both sides’ mutual desire to build stronger ties based on trust, dialogue, and shared prosperity.

During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed and President Costa discussed the ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the European Union. This agreement aims to boost trade, investment, and economic collaboration across key sectors, opening new opportunities for business growth and innovation. Both leaders agreed that the CEPA would mark a major step forward in UAE-EU relations, helping to create more jobs, encourage sustainable growth, and strengthen both economies in the long term.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed emphasised that the UAE values its partnership with the EU and its member states, considering the relationship vital for advancing peace, development, and global cooperation. He highlighted that the UAE continues to support open dialogue, mutual understanding, and the exchange of expertise between nations. President Costa also praised the UAE’s role as a stable and active partner in promoting peace, energy cooperation, and international trade, stressing the importance of maintaining momentum in joint initiatives.

The talks also covered several pressing regional and global issues. Sheikh Mohamed and President Costa exchanged views on the latest developments in the Middle East, especially the ongoing situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Both leaders underlined the urgent need to preserve the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and ensure the safe and continuous delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians affected by the conflict. They agreed that protecting innocent lives and ensuring humanitarian access must remain a top priority for the international community.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through the two-state solution, which they said is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region. They stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation must remain the foundation for resolving regional crises. Sheikh Mohamed and President Costa also called for stronger international efforts to encourage negotiations that would ensure security, justice, and dignity for all people in the region.

Sheikh Mohamed and President Costa agreed that diplomatic engagement and mutual respect are key to addressing today’s complex global challenges. They praised the growing cooperation between the UAE and EU institutions in areas such as renewable energy, climate action, education, and cultural exchange. Both leaders expressed optimism that ongoing discussions and high-level visits would continue to enhance understanding and strengthen relations between the UAE and the European Union.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President; along with several ministers and senior officials from both sides. Their presence reflected the importance both nations place on advancing cooperation across multiple sectors and ensuring that the outcomes of the discussions are effectively implemented.