UAE And EU Initiate Strategic Partnership Agreement Negotiations To Enhance Cooperation

Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Minister of State, and Dubravka Šuica, EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, held a joint press conference in Abu Dhabi. Šuica highlighted the UAE as a strategic partner of the European Union, emphasising their longstanding cooperation. This partnership is crucial for promoting stability, prosperity, and development in societies.

Nusseibeh underscored the significance of launching negotiations on a Strategic Partnership Agreement between the UAE and the EU. She described it as a pivotal step towards enhancing their strategic relationship. This reflects their belief that collaboration is vital for achieving regional and global stability and prosperity.

The agreement under negotiation aims to create a structured framework for cooperation in key areas such as digitisation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. Nusseibeh stressed that this partnership goes beyond economic impact, reflecting a shared responsibility to contribute to global stability and humanitarian relief.

Šuica noted that today's announcement builds on decades of cooperation and aligns with the ambitious agenda set for 2024 under the EU’s 2032 strategy. The goal is to establish a modern agenda that enhances the strategic importance of the UAE–EU relationship.

Nusseibeh highlighted that discussions on a free trade agreement are progressing rapidly. These discussions are supported by shared economic interests. The positive impacts will be felt by both sides through strengthened trade ties, expanded investment opportunities, and deeper business-to-business cooperation.

Šuica explained that the free trade agreement aims to deepen cooperation in scientific research, innovation, energy, artificial intelligence, digitisation, humanitarian action, and education. It will also open new prospects for collaborative projects across the Middle East and North Africa.

Humanitarian Efforts

Nusseibeh mentioned the UAE’s pledge of US$550 million to support the UN’s humanitarian response plan. This underscores its commitment to ensuring international cooperation delivers not only prosperity but also dignity and hope to vulnerable communities worldwide.

Regarding Sudan's situation, Nusseibeh stated that the UAE is actively consulting on resolving the conflict. She welcomed European Parliament's support for mediation efforts aimed at securing an immediate humanitarian truce followed by a permanent ceasefire.

Future Prospects

Nusseibeh affirmed that translating this growing alliance into tangible outcomes is essential. The focus is on moving from strategic intent to practical implementation to ensure measurable benefits for people, private sectors, and the broader international community.

Šuica emphasised Europe's role in building this strategic cooperation with the UAE as crucial for reinforcing stability and prosperity. The Strategic Partnership Agreement launched today serves as a key instrument within their shared relations framework.

Nusseibeh pointed out that recent statements by international bodies represent historic steps toward halting conflict in Sudan. A civilian government is seen as essential for Sudan's stable future without extremist influence or becoming a haven for terrorists.

With inputs from WAM