EU seeks closer cooperation with UAE for regional stability

European Council President Antonio Costa said on Tuesday that the European Union and the United Arab Emirates could work more closely to help bring stability back to the region.

Costa made the comment on X after meeting UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. He also thanked the Emirati leadership for ensuring the safety of around 200,000 EU citizens living in the country.

“We discussed how the EU and the UAE can cooperate more closely to bring stability back to the region and protect our shared interests,” Costa said.

He added that the EU remained committed to restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and supporting diplomatic efforts for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Costa’s comments came during a two-day tour of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where he said he would promote deeper cooperation and a negotiated path toward regional stability.

After he arrived in Abu Dhabi, Costa wrote on X that the EU stands “in full solidarity in the face of Iran’s indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful attacks.”

“We are a reliable partner for the Gulf countries and are ready to contribute. By working together, we can support a comprehensive strategy for lasting peace in the Middle East through negotiation and diplomacy.” he wrote.