Abu dhabi: The first round of political consultations between the United Arab Emirates and the African Union Commission took place in Abu Dhabi, building on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2019. This initiative is within the framework of a shared commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships, as well as the recent Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2025 concerning health partnerships in Africa.
According to Emirates News Agency, both sides agreed to pursue tangible outcomes by intensifying technical coordination on issues of shared interest and holding regular political consultations to track progress. In light of recent regional developments, both parties expressed their full solidarity with the State of Qatar in response to attacks launched by Israel, which pose a threat to regional and international peace and security. The Chairperson of the AU Commission reaffirmed support for the UAE’s sovereignty over its occupied islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa.
During the consultations, the two sides underscored the close relations between the UAE and Africa, rooted in shared interests and bolstered by high-level exchanges, most notably the visit of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Angola. This visit was significant given Angola’s current chairmanship of the AU and its role in mediation and peace initiatives across the continent.
The economic aspect of the partnership was highlighted, with the UAE emerging as a leading investor in Africa. This is guided by a vision to promote shared development, expand investments in infrastructure, energy, and sustainable growth, and create jobs, aligning with the continent’s priorities in electricity, digitalisation, and the empowerment of women and youth.
The discussions also covered regional issues of common interest, including developments in the Horn of Africa, Sudan, Central Africa, and the Sahel, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to enhance security and stability. Additionally, the role of the UAE during its United Nations Security Council membership (2022-2023) in supporting African issues and strengthening coordination with the three African member states on the Council was acknowledged.
The consultations concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to advancing the UAE-AU partnership in ways that promote peace, stability, and sustainable development across Africa. Following the consultations, Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, met to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation in investment, renewable energy, and youth and women empowerment.