Sheikh Mohamed and Zelenskyy Discuss Trade and Humanitarian…

President Sheikh Mohamed met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Abu Dhabi to discuss humanitarian support and a new trade agreement. The leaders highlighted the UAE’s ongoing mediation efforts for prisoner exchanges and expressed intentions to strengthen economic partnerships. Zelenskyy acknowledged the significance of UAE’s role in conflict resolution as both countries look towards increased collaboration.

President Sheikh Mohamed held official discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to facilitating peace in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The meeting underscored the UAE’s role in mediating humanitarian efforts, including prisoner exchanges. Sheikh Mohamed expressed gratitude for Ukraine’s collaboration in these initiatives and highlighted the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, marking a significant step in trade and investment relations between the two nations.

During the talks, Zelenskyy expressed his eagerness to strengthen ties with the UAE and appreciated its diplomatic efforts, especially concerning prisoner exchanges. He emphasized the importance of returning Ukrainians held captive in Russia, stating, “The UAE’s mediation has saved many lives. We are grateful for this crucial co-operation and today we discussed how to continue it.” Key areas for partnership discussed included economic collaboration, renewable energy, and food security.

Sheikh Mohamed hosted a luncheon for Zelenskyy and his delegation, which included prominent officials such as Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and other senior ministers. Zelenskyy’s official visit to the UAE is aimed at garnering support for the release of captives and enhancing economic partnerships, along with humanitarian initiatives.

This visit follows the UAE’s recent mediations resulting in successful prisoner exchanges, totaling 2,883 individuals since the beginning of 2022. The UAE government underscored its commitment to diplomatic efforts for conflict resolution and ongoing humanitarian support. Additionally, Sheikh Mohamed pledged $100 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine in 2022.

While the UAE continues to support Ukraine, Zelenskyy’s visit occurs in a broader context as US and Russian talks are being set up in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential resolutions to the ongoing war. Zelenskyy, however, reiterated that Ukraine would not engage in discussions with Russia without coordination with its allies, affirming the importance of strategic partnerships. The ongoing relationship between the UAE and Russia is also significant, with discussions about further collaboration taking place during this time.

In summary, President Sheikh Mohamed’s meeting with President Zelenskyy showcases the UAE’s proactive role in peace mediation and humanitarian assistance amidst the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement highlights the drive to strengthen trade relations, while the discussions around prisoner exchanges underline ongoing humanitarian commitments. The UAE remains dedicated to supporting Ukraine and fostering diplomatic initiatives for peaceful resolutions.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com