Sheikh Mohamed, Macron discuss bilateral ties, regional issues

PARIS - Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the friendship and strategic partnership between the UAE and France, as well as promising opportunities for developing them, in addition to several issues of mutual concern.

The meeting between the two leaders took place at the Palace of Fontainebleau in Paris.

Macron welcomed the visit and highlighted his happiness at receiving Sheikh Mohamed, under the framework of their mutual coordination and consultation regarding bilateral ties and regional issues of mutual interest.

Sheikh Mohamed conveyed the greetings and best wishes of President  Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Macron.

Sheikh Mohamed highlighted his happiness at visiting France, stressing that his consultations and exchanges of views with Macron are ongoing, and that their direct meetings have reinforced their bilateral ties.

During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed and Macron discussed cooperation between the UAE and France in the areas of investment, the economy and culture, as well as other vital sectors, to drive sustainable development in both countries.

The meeting addressed the COVID-19 pandemic and the international efforts to mitigate its humanitarian and economic fallout and return to normalcy, as well as several regional and global issues of mutual concern, most notably the current situation in Afghanistan.

Macron expressed France's appreciation to Sheikh Mohamed for the UAE’s support in evacuating foreign citizens from Afghanistan.

Both sides then affirmed the importance of achieving security, peace and stability in the region through diplomatic means and constructive dialogue.

(WAM)