FNC Hosts Special UAE–EU Session To Enhance Parliamentary Cooperation And Dialogue

The Federal National Council (FNC) held a significant "UAE–European" session, led by Speaker Saqr Ghobash. This meeting, part of the second term of the 18th legislative chapter, took place at Zayed Hall in Abu Dhabi. Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, attended alongside various ministers, senior officials, and ambassadors from European Union member states accredited to the UAE.

Ghobash warmly welcomed Metsola and her delegation. He also greeted Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs; and Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. EU ambassadors and European business leaders with ventures in the UAE were present too.

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Ghobash expressed gratitude for Metsola’s visit, highlighting its importance in reinforcing the UAE's commitment to dialogue and global openness. "We are honoured by your presence as esteemed guests," he stated. "We also celebrate your role as partners in a dialogue rooted in shared parliamentary values." He praised these values as a reflection of unity and mutual efforts to promote human dignity.

The FNC Speaker emphasised that this visit signifies enhanced cooperation between the FNC and the European Parliament. "It marks the beginning of a broader path for future joint initiatives on critical global concerns," he added. These initiatives include peace, sustainable development, climate safety, and protecting societies from extremist rhetoric.

Saqr Ghobash stressed that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza requires urgent international attention. He called for wisdom to prevail, advocating for de-escalation and civilian protection. A ceasefire is essential to pave the way for a political resolution that restores hope for peace and security to Palestinians.

He also expressed concern over regional tensions involving Iranian nuclear facilities. These pose serious risks and could lead to instability. "In this context," he said, "we underscore the UAE’s consistent position that diplomacy and dialogue must prevail as the only means to resolve disputes." Comprehensive approaches promoting stability are crucial.

European Union-UAE Partnership

Metsola addressed the FNC, noting that relations between the EU and UAE have entered a new phase of partnership grounded in peace and prosperity principles. She praised the UAE as a model for coexistence and progress through dialogue and trust-based partnerships.

Metsola commended Abu Dhabi’s international stature as a symbol of peaceful coexistence. She lauded UAE’s efforts in promoting parliamentary diplomacy and leadership in supporting global peace. "I stand before you today representing 450 million European citizens," she said, expressing hope for strengthened bilateral ties through constructive dialogue.

Economic Ties

Metsola highlighted strong economic ties between both sides, noting that the EU is UAE’s second-largest trading partner with mutual investments totaling €328 billion. Tourism, educational exchange, and cultural cooperation are key pillars strengthening this partnership.

The President affirmed that "the partnership between the European Union and the UAE is entering a new phase of strategic cooperation." With genuine political will and mutual understanding, this relationship can advance toward broader horizons of peace and prosperity.

With inputs from WAM