Abu Dhabi, UAE — UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong Sunday discussed the relations and partnership between the two countries and explored avenues for its development to serve mutual interests.
Additionally, they addressed a range of regional and international issues and developments of shared concern, WAM reported.
The meeting took place during the reception of the Singaporean Prime Minister at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where the Prime Minister conveyed the greetings of Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore, and his wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the UAE.
In return, Sheikh Zayed underscored his aspiration that this visit would advance ties between the UAE and Singapore in all vital sectors aligned with the developmental priorities of both nations, WAM reported.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed cooperation and opportunities to develop relations, especially in the fields of economy, investment, education, and tourism, along with advanced technology, digital commerce, renewable energy, sustainability solutions, food security, and climate action, among other strategic sectors that contribute to creating new opportunities aligned with the comprehensive and sustainable developmental vision in both countries.
The discussion also touched upon the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), which the UAE is hosting later this year. The two sides noted the conference’s importance in generating sustainable solutions that signify a substantial shift in global climate action for the collective benefit of all people, reflecting both nations’ interest in environmental, climate, renewable energy, and sustainability matters.
Furthermore, the two sides discussed the need to promote the values of tolerance, coexistence, and dialogue, given their close link with regional and international peace and stability. The leaders agreed these values are a foundation for achieving progress, development, and sustainable prosperity for their peoples.
UAE President also highlighted the UAE’s determination to expand relations with Singapore, especially in vital sectors that serve development, including technology, energy, education, sustainability, trade, and investment, among others. He noted that the UAE is Singapore’s top trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa.
The Singaporean Prime Minister penned a statement in the VIP guestbook, expressing his country’s desire to enter a new stage in its relations with the UAE and his wishes for further progress and prosperity in the UAE.