UAE, Russian Presidents Discuss Strategic Partnership and Developments in Gaza

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan receiving Russian President Vladimir Putin (WAM)
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan receiving Russian President Vladimir Putin (WAM)
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UAE, Russian Presidents Discuss Strategic Partnership and Developments in Gaza

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan receiving Russian President Vladimir Putin (WAM)
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan receiving Russian President Vladimir Putin (WAM)

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin have discussed the bilateral ties between the UAE and Russia and explored prospects to enhance relations within the context of the strategic partnership.

Wednesday’s talks addressed various regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Sheikh Mohammed received Putin, who arrived on a state visit at Qasr al-Watan in Abu Dhabi.

The two leaders exchanged views on various issues of mutual interest, focusing on the "developments in Palestine, emphasizing the need for international action to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, protect civilians, and ensure the safe, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid."

Both sides underscored the importance of "working towards a clear horizon for a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region based on the two-state solution."

The meeting also addressed recent developments in Ukraine.

The Emirati President emphasized that the UAE is committed to resolving conflicts worldwide through diplomacy and dialogue, asserting that it comes within UAE's "established policy of promoting peace, cooperation, and stability regionally and globally to enhance international peace and security."

The meeting touched upon the ongoing UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) held at Expo City Dubai.

The Russian President hoped the conference would "yield outcomes that contribute to finding constructive solutions to climate challenges and enhancing international climate action for the benefit of all of humanity."

Sheikh Mohamed affirmed the "UAE's commitment to building bridges of cooperation with various countries to support initiatives that promote global stability and prosperity for all."

Putin commended the UAE's role at the international level, mainly through its membership in the UN Security Council, as well as its efforts to foster global stability, according to the official Emirates News Agency (WAM).



Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)

The last group of pilgrims from this year’s Hajj season departed Saudi Arabia on Sunday aboard a Saudia flight from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.

The flight carried 320 pilgrims to Kertajati, Indonesia, after they completed their Hajj rituals. Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, hosted a farewell ceremony, concluding its 74-day Hajj operations.

The first flight for this year’s Hajj season arrived in Madinah on May 9 from India with 283 pilgrims.

They were welcomed by the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

Saudi Arabia facilitated 7,700 flights through six airports and provided over 27,000 buses to ease pilgrim transportation. The Haramain High-Speed Railway operated more than 5,000 trips during the season.

Over 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the last Hajj season. Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel confirmed there were no health issues or outbreaks.

The organization of Hajj was praised by leaders of Arab and Islamic countries.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi commended the excellent organization and services provided to millions of pilgrims.

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa praised the meticulous organization and services.

Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah appreciated the modern smart services and technologies.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed highlighted the success of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management.