Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Catherine Colonna, Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, at a working dinner in Abu Dhabi. Yesterday, they discussed developments in the Middle East region and ways to improve the humanitarian response and emergency relief for civilians.

His Highness and Colonna discussed efforts to de-escalate and calm the situation, and in this regard, they stressed the urgent priority of protecting all civilians from the consequences of the current crisis.

Both sides also reviewed regional and international efforts to provide relief and medical assistance to civilians in a safe and sustainable manner.

In a related context, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Catherine Colonna discussed the friendly relations and opportunities for strategic partnership between the UAE and the French Republic.

They reviewed the avenues of bilateral cooperation in all sectors including economy, trade, development, investment and education. Within the framework of the UAE hosting the conference, talks were also held on Emirati-French cooperation in the field of environment and climate. Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) this month.

They stressed that strengthening cooperation in the climate sector is a priority for both countries and that “COP28” will open up promising horizons for achieving qualitative improvements in the global climate action process.

Colonna’s visit was welcomed by His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who emphasized the strength and strength of the friendship and strategic partnership with the French Republic. He pointed to the continuous development of joint cooperation between the two countries, which supports their development aspirations and efforts to achieve sustainable economic prosperity.