UAE participates in extraordinary EU–GCC leaders meeting

The UAE has taken part in an extraordinary meeting of leaders from the GCC, several regional partners and the European Union, to discuss Iranian aggression against countries in the Gulf and the wider region.

The meeting, held by videoconference, was co-chaired by António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Representatives of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey also joined the talks.

During the meeting, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan thanked participating leaders for their support and solidarity during the current crisis.

He praised the resilience of the UAE in defending against more than 1,700 Iranian missiles and drones, and stressed the country’s determination to protect everyone on its territory.

Sheikh Saif said Iran’s actions represent a serious violation of the UAE’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a breach of international law that threatens regional and international security.

He added that the UAE had responded with restraint to avoid further escalation while keeping diplomatic channels open, but reaffirmed the country’s right to self-defence and its readiness to confront any threats.

The Emirati minister also said European countries, given their strategic ties to the Middle East and the large number of their citizens living in and visiting the UAE, can play an important role in helping reduce tensions in the region.

He concluded by calling for stronger partnerships, particularly in defence, maritime security and trade, to support regional stability and shared prosperity.