Europe Asia News

Commission President von der Leyen held a phone conversation with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During their call, both parties agreed to launch negotiations for a free trade agreement.

The meeting was described as a positive step forward in EU-UAE relations and may serve as a catalyst for broader Strategic Partnership Agreements and stronger ties between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s strong track record in delivering high-standard trade agreements and building partnerships based on open trade and mutual benefit.

The negotiations will focus on liberalizing trade in goods, services, and investment, while also deepening cooperation in strategic sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, and critical raw materials.