Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Boris Johnson discuss Gulf security on phone call

The two leaders agreed to continuing working together in a bid to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has congratulated the UK's new prime minister Boris Johnson.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has congratulated the UK’s new prime minister Boris Johnson.

In a call on Friday, the two leaders reaffirmed their nations’ special friendship and reemphasised their commitment to working together to deescalate tensions in the Arabian Gulf.

He also reiterated the UK’s support for the UAE in hosting the Dubai Expo next year.

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister received a call of congratulations from the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan.

“The two leaders agreed on the importance of continuing to work together to strengthen our economic partnership and to cooperate on shared security matters, including to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf."

“The Prime Minister also reiterated the UK’s support for the UAE in hosting the Dubai Expo next year.”

Mr Johnson was sworn-in as the new UK prime minister last month replacing Theresa May. As foreign secretary Mr Johnson met with senior Emirati officials and visited the UAE.

The Dubai Expo 2020 is expected to attract 25m visitors and will have stands from more than 130 countries.