Strasbourg: Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), engaged in official talks with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, at the parliament's headquarters in Strasbourg. The meeting took place during the official visit of the FNC delegation. Metsola extended an official welcome to Ghobash and his delegation during the European Parliament's plenary session, highlighting the UAE's esteemed position within European institutions and the increasing trajectory of parliamentary cooperation.
According to Emirates News Agency, several FNC members attended the meeting, where Metsola expressed the European Parliament's appreciation for the visit and its solidarity with the UAE amid current regional circumstances. The discussions focused on enhancing parliamentary cooperation and developing mechanisms for institutional dialogue that serve the shared interests of the UAE and the European Union. Both sides emphasized the importance of coordination on regional and international issues of mutual concern.
The talks also addressed recent regional developments and their impact on regional and international security and stability. Both parties affirmed the significance of parliamentary partnership in supporting security and reinforcing shared principles and values. Ghobash highlighted that the growing relations between the UAE and EU member states receive support from the UAE leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, due to their strategic importance.
Ghobash further noted that parliamentary cooperation is crucial for political understanding and stressed that the security of the Arabian Gulf region is now an integral part of the European and international security system. This is due to the close connection between Gulf stability, global energy security, supply chain safety, and international trade movement. Ghobash warned that any threat to Gulf security or vital maritime corridors could directly impact European markets and the global economy.
He emphasized the importance of protecting maritime routes and restoring full and permanent freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Ghobash explained that international maritime security is a direct European and global interest aimed at safeguarding the European economy from escalation repercussions. He also acknowledged the supportive stance of the European Parliament and the European Union in confronting Iranian attacks and their expressions of solidarity against targeting state sovereignty and civilian infrastructure.
Roberta Metsola reiterated the importance of UAE-European relations and the growing role of parliamentary diplomacy in enhancing political understanding, supporting regional stability, and addressing global challenges. She reflected on her previous visit to the UAE, where she observed the country's development, stability, and openness. Metsola stressed the importance of continuing direct consultations amid rapidly evolving challenges.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Saqr Ghobash extended an official invitation to Metsola to visit the UAE to continue parliamentary dialogue and initiate a new phase of cooperation through regular engagement.