UAE-EU advancing relations highlighted on Europe Day
abu dhabi — The growing relations between the European Union and the UAE were highlighted as the Emirates Diplomatic Academy marked 60th anniversary of the Rome Treaties — the Europe Day.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, highlighted the achievements made by the European Union — one of the most valued partners of the UAE.
Sheikh Nahyan said the UAE has always encouraged a strong relationship with its European counterparts.
The event highlighted the importance of advancing bilateral relations that have lately grown from strength to strength, especially since the simplification of visa rules that have provided more open travel for UAE nationals throughout the 34 European countries party to the Schengen agreement, and continued improving bilateral trade.
As many as 14 European embassy representatives discussed European Union’s global strategy in roundtables with the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) students. The EDA specialises in international relations, diplomacy, education, executive training and research.
Students engaged in closed, indepth discussions with leading diplomats on academic and diplomatic topics during roundtable sessions. The event also provided students a platform to share experiences from their recent delegation visits to the Netherlands and Belgium, and to put their skills into practice.
Students discussed the global strategy for the EU’s foreign and security policy as well as the impact of Brexit and the current political situation in France on the European Union.
Patrizio Fondi, Ambassador of the EU to the UAE, led the delegation. Ambassadors Dominique Mineur of Belgium, Dionyssios Zois of Greece, Liborio Stellino of Italy, Frank Mollen of the Netherlands and Jan Thesleff of Sweden were also present. Patrizio Fondi said the EDA is a great place where young Emiratis are inspired to be the leaders of tomorrow.
“The role of young diplomats is crucial to promoting peace, solidarity, tolerance and unity. This occasion marks the origins of the EU and the challenges it faces in the world today,” Fondi added.
EDA president Bernardino Leon said the UAE shares many common values with the Union.
“This ceremony demonstrates the academy’s unwavering commitment to supporting the strong ties between the UAE and the member countries of the EU. The roundtable discussion adds great value to the learning experience of our participating students.”
Leon said the institute seeks to enhance understanding across cultures and countries to help forge stronger, closer relations with a diverse range of nations, including our friends within the EU.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
The role of young diplomats is crucial to promoting peace, solidarity, tolerance and unity. This occasion marks the origins of the EU and the challenges it faces in the world today,” Patrizio Fondi, Ambassador of the EU to the UAE