UAE, Ireland Hold First Round Of Political Consultations, Marking 50 Years Of Diplomatic Ties

The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Ireland held their first round of political consultations in Abu Dhabi, marking a key milestone in their diplomatic relationship — especially significant as the two countries celebrate 50 years of bilateral ties.

The meeting was led by Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, and Gerard Keown, Director General and Political Director at Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs. Both sides reviewed progress in various areas and confirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation.

Nusseibeh spoke about the strong and forward-looking partnership based on shared values, with growing collaboration in key areas such as water, food, and energy security, as well as artificial intelligence, space research, and global cooperation, WAM reported.

During the consultations, the UAE and Ireland discussed ways to boost cooperation in important areas, especially trade and investment.

The two sides noted a 9% rise in their non-oil trade in 2023 and welcomed the decision to begin talks for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the European Union, which is expected to further strengthen economic ties.

They also shared views on key international and regional issues, including the Middle East Peace Process, European security, and the situation in the Horn of Africa. Both sides emphasized the need to promote peace, reduce tensions, and support diplomacy in these regions.

The meeting ended with both countries appreciating the open and productive discussions. They agreed to continue these consultations regularly to support shared goals and strengthen political cooperation.

The UAE delegation included several senior officials: Omran Sharaf, Assistant Minister for Advanced Sciences and Technology; Mohammed Homoud Alshamsi, UAE Ambassador to Ireland; Reem Ketait, Deputy Assistant Minister for Political Affairs; Shaima Gargash, Director of the Energy and Sustainability Department; and Hind AlShraim, Deputy Director of the European Affairs Department.

From Ireland's side, the attendees were Alison Milton, Irish Ambassador to the UAE, and Sean O'Regan, Director of the Gulf and Middle East Unit at Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs.

Last year, Ajman Chamber's Director General, Salem Al Suwaidi, met Irish Ambassador to the UAE Alison Milton to discuss strengthening partnerships and economic cooperation, focusing on boosting regional trade and exploring investment opportunities.