UAE leaders receive Syrian President Bashar Al Assad

Two countries discussed provision of political and humanitarian support for Syria and its people

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed discusses the need for co-operation between the UAE and Syria with President Bashar Al Assad. Wam

UAE leaders received Syrian President Bashar Al Assad on Friday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, discussed the latest developments in Syria with its president.

The visit comes as the two countries continue consultation and co-ordination on various areas of interest.

Mr Al Assad briefed Sheikh Mohamed on the latest developments in Syria and Sheikh Mohamed expressed his wishes that the president's visit will pave the way for goodness, peace and stability to prevail in the country and the region.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a number of issues and emphasised preserving the territorial integrity of Syria and the withdrawal of foreign forces from the country.

They also discussed the provision of political and humanitarian support for Syria and its people in order to reach a peaceful solution to all challenges.

Sheikh Mohamed stressed that Syria is a fundamental pillar of Arab security and the UAE is keen to strengthen co-operation with Damascus to achieve stability and development to the benefit of the Syrian people.

The leaders parted ways at Al Bateen Airport, where Mr Al Assad boarded a plane back to Syria.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid met Mr Al Assad, at his rest house in Al Marmoom in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed wished the people of Syria security, peace, stability and prosperity.

The meeting focused on overall relations between the two countries and ways to grow them further.

They also reviewed the current situation in Syria, as well as various developments in the Arab world and world at large.

Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE was keen to co-operate with Syria in various fields and use opportunities that further the interests of both countries.

The meeting was attended by: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. A number of ministries and officials also attended the meeting.