ABU DHABI // Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Egyptian president Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Tuesday spoke about the successful campaign by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.
Mr El Sisi was visiting to discuss ways of confronting terrorism and extremist ideology.
He and Sheikh Mohammed, also Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, agreed that protecting the sea routes in Bab Al Mandeb off Yemen was a key achievement for Operation Restoring Hope, ensuring free movement of international trade.
The coalition is battling Houthi rebels in the strife-torn country, in support of its internationally recognised government.
Sheikh Mohammed and Mr El Sisi spoke of the importance of coordinating with regional and international powers to end the Syrian crisis through talks.
They agreed on the importance of protecting Palestinians from Israeli aggression in the current surge of violence.
They also discussed Libya, and efforts by the United Nations to find a peaceful settlement there.
Sheikh Mohammed and Mr El Sisi stressed the need for continued efforts towards enforcing Arab solidarity in confronting challenges facing the region, protecting its capabilities and countering extremism, violence and terrorist groups who sought to undermine the security, peace and stability of the region and its institutions.
Mr El Sisi also visited Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. He was taken on a tour of Dubai city and briefed on its landmarks and sustainable development projects.
The UAE was Mr El Sisi’s first stop on a tour that will also include India and Bahrain.
Ties between the UAE and Egypt have grown stronger over the years. The UAE has been a pillar in terms of economic assistance to Egypt, which was the largest recipient of its foreign aid in 2013.
The Government provided Egypt with nearly Dh17 billion for development projects and charitable assistance.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
