Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders discussed ways to strengthen ties between the UAE and France during the phone call. Sheikh Mohamed and Mr Macron exchanged views on a number of issues of mutual concern and stressed the need to ensure regional security and stability through dialogue and diplomatic solutions. The call also touched on the latest efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic. This week, France thanked the UAE for helping its citizens to leave Afghanistan after the Taliban seized control of the country. Florence Parly, France's Minister of the Armed Forces, offered her gratitude for the Emirati assistance during a phone call to Mohammed Al Bawardi, UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs. The first French military plane carrying French citizens from Afghanistan landed in Abu Dhabi on Monday night, Ms Parly said on Tuesday,<i> </i>Reuters reported. Mr Al Bawardi emphasised the UAE's commitment to supporting its allies in efforts to protect security and stability in the region. <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/>