UAE And Australia Strengthen Ties At 10th Joint Consular Committee Session In Canberra

The United Arab Emirates and Australia recently convened the 10th session of their Consular Committee in Canberra. This meeting underscored the robust bilateral ties and mutual dedication to enhancing consular cooperation. The session was particularly significant as it marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

This gathering followed notable high-level interactions, such as H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan's visit to Australia in November 2024. Additionally, Australia's Governor-General had an official visit to the UAE, further cementing the relationship between the two countries.

Faisal Eissa Lutfi, Assistant Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the UAE delegation. Ciara Spencer, First Assistant Secretary of the Security Division at Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, headed the Australian side.

Lutfi began by extending greetings from H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He expressed sincere hopes for a successful meeting, setting a positive tone for discussions that would follow.

The discussions centred on shared interests, particularly in exchanging expertise in consular services. Both sides explored various joint consular issues and outlined plans for their development and follow-up actions.

Commitment to strengthening consular cooperation was reaffirmed by both parties. They emphasised delivering efficient services focused on citizens while continuing to build on their strategic partnership.

Representatives from several UAE entities participated, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. Australian authorities also joined these discussions to ensure comprehensive engagement.

The meeting highlighted a shared vision for future collaboration in consular affairs. Both nations aim to enhance service delivery and maintain strong diplomatic ties through ongoing dialogue and cooperation efforts.

With inputs from WAM