UAE, European Commission Presidents explore closer ties

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has held a phone call with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to discuss ways to strengthen ties in support of shared interests.

During the call, both sides welcomed the formal launch of negotiations on a strategic partnership agreement between the UAE and the EU, describing it as an important step in deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key priority areas.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing UAE-EU relations, particularly in development-focused sectors, noting that negotiations toward a future free trade agreement would open new opportunities for collaboration.

Regional and international developments were also reviewed, including the situation in the Middle East. The leaders discussed efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza and stressed the importance of ensuring sustained humanitarian aid.

Both sides underlined the need to work toward a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting regional stability.

The call also touched on the latest developments in the Ukraine crisis and ongoing efforts to resolve it.

Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE’s support for dialogue and political solutions to global crises, in line with the country’s commitment to promoting peace, development and prosperity worldwide.