Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, met with Jean-Yves Le Drian, the French foreign minister, on Friday as part of an official visit to France.
The ministers discussed friendship and cooperation between the UAE and France across a range of areas, including security, trade and cultural exchanges.
Sheikh Abdullah welcomed France's efforts to find a solution in Libya through its recent hosting of a conference bringing together Libyan leaders to back a pact to work together.
He also affirmed the UAE's firm interest in strengthening its cooperation with France, based on the strong mutual interest of developing closer ties between the two nations.
Both sides exchanged views on the latest regional developments and reviewed several issues of mutual concern, especially the situation in Yemen and Libya.
Sheikh Abdullah underlined the importance working closely together to develop a common understanding.
Mr Le Drian responded that strengthening strategic relations with the UAE would entail enhancing cooperation in all areas, including in culture and education.
Mr Le Drian welcomed Sheikh Abdullah’s visit while highlighting France's desire to consolidate its ties with the UAE. He also praised the UAE's leading regional and international stature and its role in supporting international efforts to bring peace and stability to the region.
Among the highlights of bilateral relations with France in the last year has been the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum.
