UAE a strong ally of EU, says foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini

Europe's representative for foreign affairs welcomed a delegation led by Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, speaker of the UAE Federal National Council

Federica Mogherini also expressed to Dr Amal Al Qubaisi the EU’s appreciation for the UAE’s efforts for stability in Yemen

The EU plans to strengthen its ties with the UAE, Federica Mogherini, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs said.

Ms Mogherini made the remark during talks with members of high-level delegation from the UAE Federal National Council (FNC), during their visit to the European Parliament in Brussels.

Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, the speaker of the FNC, highlighted the issue of the three UAE islands occupied by Iran and called for a  resolution of the issue through direct negotiations or international arbitration during talks.

Ms Mogherini stressed the importance and depth of the co-operation and partnership and noted that the EU is keen to strengthen co-operation with the UAE, a valuable ally in the fight against terrorism and in achieving security and stability.

She welcomed the approach adopted by the UAE and its progressive mindset in terms of women's empowerment, gender equality, tolerance and coexistence.

Ms Mogherini also expressed the EU’s appreciation for the UAE’s efforts for stability in Yemen, noting that the UAE is instrumental in securing political settlement in line with its interest in finding a peaceful solution: “We appreciate the UAE’s role in this regard as well as the aid offered to refugees in different countries.” She also reiterated the importance of stability for returning refugees.

She noted that there is significant co-operation between the EU and GCC countries.

Regarding security, she said the nuclear deal with Iran is the best means available to ensure its disarmament. She added that the EU would like to see Iran change its foreign policy  to non-interference in the internal affairs of its neighbours.

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Dr Al Qubaisi added: "The UAE's stance of non-interference in the internal affairs of countries is diametrically opposed to Iran's supporting the Houthi militias in Yemen with arms and missiles. We condemn the move of the Houthis to stop humanitarian aid from reaching Yemenis in need. The UAE has contributed $4.9 billion in humanitarian aid to Yemen from April 2015 until December 2018."