Abu dhabi: Building on the longstanding strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the French Republic, and under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, the 18th session of the UAE-France Strategic Dialogue convened in Abu Dhabi on May 6, 2026. The Dialogue was co-chaired by Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the UAE's Executive Affairs Authority, and Martin Briens, Secretary-General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Dialogue underscored the shared commitment of both countries to strengthening a comprehensive and forward-looking bilateral partnership across a wide range of areas. The UAE-France Strategic Dialogue witnessed participation from Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, Fahad Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to the French Republic, and Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of France in the UAE, along with other officials.
During the Dialogue, the two sides reaffirmed the strength of their longstanding strategic partnership and their shared commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation across key areas, with an ambition to deepen and expand collaboration. On regional developments, they condemned Iran's attacks on the UAE, GCC States, and other regional States, emphasizing that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to international shipping.
The discussions covered priority issues of regional and international significance, reaffirming commitment to peace between Israelis and Palestinians and supporting Lebanon's sovereignty. They called for a humanitarian truce in Sudan and a resolution to the war, while also supporting a solution to the war in Ukraine. Economic cooperation discussions highlighted trade, investment, nuclear energy, and aviation sectors.
Cultural cooperation was emphasized with the success of Louvre Abu Dhabi, and discussions advanced for the museum's 10th anniversary. Both sides committed to exploring further cultural cooperation opportunities. Nuclear energy cooperation focused on regulation, operations, and technological leadership, while space cooperation included space exploration and commercial activities.
Health cooperation was addressed through the One Health approach, emphasizing research and development partnerships. Educational cooperation noted progress in the French Language Roadmap with increased student numbers, alongside the success of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.
At the conclusion of the Dialogue, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership and advancing shared interests through close cooperation.