Abu dhabi: During a working visit to the United Arab Emirates, Christian Stocker, the Federal Chancellor of Austria, met UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss international developments, regional security, and enhancing cooperation between the two countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, both leaders highlighted that relations between the UAE and Austria have progressed significantly, built on mutual trust, respect, and shared interests. They emphasized the commitment of both nations to promote security, stability, and prosperity in their respective regions.
The discussions included enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2021, with a focus on adapting it to include emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI). Both countries are committed to establishing a digital bridge and expanding cooperation in AI and other critical technologies, based on the MoU concluded in 2024. This includes policy coordination, research partnerships, and private sector investments in AI.
The leaders also discussed mutual investment and economic cooperation, stressing the importance of creating favorable business environments. They reaffirmed strengthening business ties through regular high-level meetings and explored establishing the UAE-Austria Business Council as a platform to advance bilateral economic ties.
Energy sector collaboration was another focus, with intentions to continue cooperation within the Strategic Energy Security and Industrial Cooperation Partnership. The role of private sector partnerships, involving ADNOC, Mubadala, OMV, and Borealis, was acknowledged in advancing energy collaboration.
Cultural cooperation was also on the agenda, with an emphasis on classical music and museums. Both leaders looked forward to new cultural partnerships and the Abu Dhabi Festival's participation as an Artistic Partner for the Vienna Philharmonic Summer Concert in 2026.
The importance of water as a vital resource was recognized, with a commitment to address global water challenges. The upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE, was highlighted as a key opportunity for advancing global water efforts.
The meeting addressed key regional and international developments, condemning Iran's attacks on regional states and its threats to maritime security. The leaders stressed the international community's responsibility to safeguard critical maritime straits and called for a peaceful settlement of the UAE-Iran island dispute through negotiations or the International Court of Justice.
Commitment to achieving lasting peace was reaffirmed, supporting a two-State solution for Israel and Palestine and peace in Ukraine, facilitated through exchanges of prisoners. The leaders also condemned attacks in Sudan, calling for humanitarian access and a sustainable ceasefire to resolve the conflict.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and cooperation across various sectors, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties between Austria and the UAE.