Abu Dhabi, 23 June 2023 (TDI): The Foreign Minister of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, met with the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed, at Al Shati Palace on June 22, concluding his three-day tour to the Persian Gulf States aimed at fostering regional cooperation.
UAE-Iran fosters bilateral relations
Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian invited the UAE president to visit Iran on behalf of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. Muhammad bin Zayed warmly welcomed the invitation from the Iranian President and expressed his willingness to undertake the visit.
He reciprocated the gesture by inviting President Raisi to visit and explore the UAE, further strengthening their previously troubled relations. The UAE and other Gulf countries have had longstanding strained relations with Iran due to its nuclear program and alleged support for regional militant groups.
After the sudden resumption of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by China in March 2023, the Gulf countries are trying to ease their tensions with Iran. The recent tour of Iran’s foreign minister to the Gulf countries, visiting Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, expressed Iran’s interest in promoting cooperation and collaboration in the Gulf region.
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During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to foster cooperation. They deliberated on various regional and international issues and stressed the need for initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing regional stability and collaboration.
Moreover, they highlighted the significance and impacts of these constructive developments and collaborations on the people of the region.
Diversifying bilateral engagement
Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian also convened a meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, his Emirati counterpart.
The top diplomats from the two nations discussed major issues of mutual concern in various fields, including political, economic, trade, consular, cultural, and scientific fields, to further diversify their relations.
Furthermore, Tehran and Abu Dhabi inked an agreement to increase airline operations between the two countries in addition to expanding bilateral trade and tourism prospects, widening the horizons of their cooperation.
