UK leader ends trip on note of friendship

The British prime minister, David Cameron, yesterday concluded a two-day visit to the UAE, one of his first foreign trips since taking office last month. Mr Cameron, who heads the UK's new governing Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition, met Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, together with other senior officials.

Following his meetings, Mr Cameron said: "The deep friendship between the UK and the UAE is based on a unique, shared history and common interests. But even more important than these is our common future. "Also, with so many important business relationships and investments in both our countries, we both want to build and develop our economic ties." A Downing Street spokesman said: "The prime minister and his hosts … discussed a wide range of issues, including Afghanistan - where British and UAE forces are working closely together - Iran and further steps to strengthen the bilateral relationship."

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