United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is on a two-day official visit to Germany at the invitation of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. A joint written statement was issued following the meeting between Merz and Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Chancellery.
The statement noted that Merz and Al Nahyan exchanged views on regional and international developments, and both leaders emphasized the necessity of diplomacy and dialogue for peace, stability, and security in the Middle East.
According to the statement, Merz and Al Nahyan condemned Iran's attacks on the UAE and other regional countries, particularly their civilian infrastructure, as well as its de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz and threats against commercial vessels.
Both leaders demanded that Iran not obstruct passage through the Strait of Hormuz and refrain from any actions or threats against commercial vessels within and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Emphasis on a two-state solution in Gaza
Merz and Al Nahyan reaffirmed their joint commitment to achieving a negotiated, comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on a two-state solution that would lead to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and sustainable Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel in peace and security, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions, based on the June 4, 1967 borders.
Merz and Al Nahyan expressed their firm rejection of unilateral measures aimed at changing the status of the occupied Palestinian territories, attempts to alter the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem, and actions that would lead to regional and demographic changes, including the forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population.
The two leaders also declared their support for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine and strongly condemned the escalating attacks in Ukraine.
Call to end military operations in Sudan
Both leaders condemned the attacks on civilians, humanitarian personnel, and convoys in the civil war in Sudan and called for an immediate halt to all military operations that continue to put civilians at risk.
The two leaders reiterated their call for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian ceasefire that would lead to a permanent truce and an inclusive and transparent transition to an independent, civilian-led government that reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people and is free from the control or influence of any party or actor fueling violence and instability across the region.
The parties underscored the need for a full arms embargo that would apply to the entire territory of Sudan.
Support for the Lebanese government from Merz and Al Nahyan
Merz and Al Nahyan expressed their support for the Lebanese government's efforts to consolidate armaments under state authority and for all efforts aimed at promoting the welfare, stability, and well-being of the Lebanese people.
Welcoming the tripartite framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, the leaders stated their hope that the agreement would be a positive step toward enhancing regional security and stability.
40 billion euro additional investment from the UAE to Germany
The joint statement announced that agreements on economic cooperation between the UAE and Germany had been signed, and in this context, the UAE would make an additional investment of 40 billion euros in Germany. It was emphasized that these investments cover various sectors, primarily industry, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and energy.
The statement noted that Germany and the UAE recognize the strategic value of close cooperation during a period of increasing global energy volatility and have recorded their intention to further deepen cooperation in all energy fields. It was stated that both countries reiterated their determination to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and to encourage information exchange, investment, and research and development, including joint development in these sectors.
Documents exceeding 9.3 billion euros signed between companies
A new agreement was also reached between Germany and the UAE in the field of aviation. Under the agreement, the UAE airline "Emirates" will be able to use Berlin Brandenburg Airport, which had not been granted flight permits until now, as its fifth destination after Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg.
The statement also noted that a Joint Declaration of Intent on the Establishment of a Germany-UAE Investment Council was signed to coordinate public and private sector investments, and that 29 commercial memoranda of understanding and contracts with a total value exceeding 9.3 billion euros were signed between companies from the two countries.
News Source: İHA
