Stockholm: Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, met with Benjamin Dousa, Sweden's Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, during her official visit to Sweden, led by H.H. Sheikha Latifa bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting highlighted the growing partnership between the UAE and Sweden, emphasizing opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Both ministers expressed their commitment to fostering economic growth, advancing humanitarian efforts, and promoting multilateral cooperation.
Dousa condemned Iranian attacks against the UAE and emphasized the importance of regional stability, international waterway safety, and adherence to international law. Al Hashimy reiterated the UAE's resilience against Iranian aggression and appreciated Sweden's support, reflecting the strong partnership and trust between the two nations.
The ministers also exchanged views on regional and international issues, including the situation in Ukraine following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent UAE visit. Al Hashimy highlighted the UAE's successful mediation efforts between Russia and Ukraine, which led to the exchange of 185 captives from each side, totaling 7,471 through UAE-mediated initiatives.
Discussions also covered the humanitarian situation in Gaza, developments in Syria and Sudan, and the importance of political solutions and humanitarian engagement in addressing regional challenges.
Economically, the ministers explored ways to enhance trade and investment ties, including the potential Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the European Union. Sweden supported efforts to deepen economic engagement and create new business opportunities in both markets.
Al Hashimy welcomed Sweden's support and reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to expanding strategic partnerships, strengthening cooperation with European partners, and advancing CEPA negotiations with the EU. She emphasized that enhanced economic cooperation would drive innovation, strengthen supply chains, and create sustainable jobs, benefiting communities and future generations.