President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Mark Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte deliberated over the strengthening of their bilateral friendship and strategic cooperation. The meeting, held at the Beach Palace in Abu Dhabi, revolved around the mutual benefits for both nations and the broader international challenges and developments that concern them.
Bin Zayed warmly welcomed the Dutch leader, expressing optimism that the visit would further boost the UAE-Dutch relationship across essential sectors. He also conveyed his best wishes to King Willem-Alexander and the people of the Netherlands, hoping for continued prosperity.
The discussion spanned various collaboration areas, with a special emphasis on investment, economy, education, culture, technology, science, renewable energy, sustainable development, and climate action. The future opportunities to deepen these ties for the mutual benefit of their nations were also on the agenda.
Significantly, the upcoming COP28 climate conference, hosted by the UAE later this year, was a focal point. Both leaders underscored their joint commitment to achieving substantial outcomes and solutions that will benefit everyone globally. Given the shared concern of the UAE and the Netherlands over environmental and climate issues, renewable energy, and sustainability, this topic held great prominence.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international matters of mutual interest. They acknowledged the importance of promoting values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and human fraternity among nations. They stressed the need for collaborative efforts to support these global principles, ensuring stability and sustainable development for all.
Highlighting the robust relations between the UAE and the Netherlands, Sheikh Mohammed referenced last year’s celebration marking 50 years of diplomatic ties. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to enhancing this relationship and capitalizing on the available opportunities for the greater good of both nations.
The economic relations between the countries, diverse and encompassing vital sectors like renewable energy, food security, technology, water, agriculture, and trade, were notably highlighted. It was mentioned that the non-oil trade exchange between the nations last year reached $4.6 billion, growing by 7.2% compared to 2021.
Bin Zayed further noted that around 350 Dutch companies operate in the UAE across various vital sectors, underscoring the UAE’s position as one of the Netherlands’ principal trading partners in the Arab region.
Bin Zayed affirmed that the UAE’s focus on sustainability, environmental action, and renewable energy is rooted in its rich historical legacy. The country has a distinguished record of supporting international efforts and initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainable development and economic prosperity for all people worldwide. He added that the UAE continues to pursue an approach of economic diversification, which has contributed to its robust economic performance, furthered its future vision, and enhanced its global stature and competitiveness.
On his part, the Dutch Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Sheikh Mohammed for the warm reception. He emphasized his country’s keenness to strengthen cooperation with its friends and partners, particularly the UAE, with whom they share mutual interests. These shared interests include sustainable development, green economy, renewable energy, food security, climate action, and other sectors.
