Abu Dhabi: SiltaNews – News Desk
The first round of political consultations between the UAE and the African Union Commission was held in Abu Dhabi. The consultations build on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2019 and reflect a shared commitment to strengthening partnership and consolidating cooperation in various fields, in addition to the recent MoU signed in July 2025 regarding the continent’s health partnership.
The two sides agreed to move forward towards achieving tangible results by intensifying technical coordination on issues of common interest and holding regular political consultations to monitor progress. In the context of recent developments in the region, the two sides expressed their full solidarity with the sisterly State of Qatar in the face of the blatant and cowardly attacks launched by Israel, which pose a direct threat to regional and international security and stability. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission also reiterated the Union’s support for the UAE’s sovereignty over its occupied islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa.
During the consultations, both sides emphasized the close ties between the UAE and the African continent, reflecting their geographical proximity and deep-rooted historical and social ties. They also highlighted the momentum reflected in mutual visits, most recently the visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to Angola. This visit takes on particular significance given Angola’s current chairmanship of the African Union and its role in mediation efforts and peace initiatives on the continent.
The economic dimension of the partnership was also highlighted, as the UAE has become the largest investor in Africa, based on a vision to promote joint development, expand investments in infrastructure, energy, and sustainable development, and provide job opportunities, in line with the continent’s priorities in the areas of electricity, digitization, and women and youth empowerment.
The two sides discussed a number of regional issues of common interest, including developments in the Horn of Africa, Sudan, Central Africa, and the Sahel region, stressing the importance of concerted efforts to enhance security and stability. They also noted the significant role played by the UAE during its membership in the United Nations Security Council (2022-2023) in defending African issues and enhancing coordination with the Group of Three African States in the Council.
The consultations concluded with both sides affirming their commitment to further developing the partnership between the UAE and the African Union, in a way that enhances security, stability, and sustainable development on the continent. The consultations were followed by a meeting between Her Excellency Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The meeting reviewed ways to enhance cooperation in the areas of investment and renewable energy, as well as supporting youth and women and activating their role in development.