UAE President: We Reject any Foreign Interference Undermining Security of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia

King Salman and President Sheikh Khalifa (Asharq al-Awsat)
King Salman and President Sheikh Khalifa (Asharq al-Awsat)
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UAE President: We Reject any Foreign Interference Undermining Security of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia

King Salman and President Sheikh Khalifa (Asharq al-Awsat)
King Salman and President Sheikh Khalifa (Asharq al-Awsat)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz sent a cable of congratulations to UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the occasion of UAE's 46th National Day.

King Salman expressed best felicitations to the president, government and people of the United Arab Emirates, wishing the president constant good health and happiness and his people steady progress and prosperity.

The Custodian also lauded the fraternal ties binding the two countries and peoples, vowing to continue enhancing them in all fields.

In addition, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, sent a cable of congratulations to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In his cable, the Crown Prince expressed best felicitations to the president, government and people of UAE, wishing the president constant good health and happiness and his people steady progress and prosperity.

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa stated that the country's foreign policy has proven the soundness of the approach adopted since the establishment of the state, which is characterized by an active vibrancy and presence at regional and international scenes to serve the national interests.

The president renewed UAE's rejection of any "foreign interference undermining our security or security and the stability of our brethren in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or any other sisterly or friendly state.

He also reiterated that extremism and terrorism are fed by policies motivated by ambitions for hegemony and adventures for influence from states supporting and financing terrorist and extremist groups.

The president called upon: "Iranian government to sit at the negotiating table for dialogue or to accept international arbitration to resolve the issue of our three occupied islands as part of efforts to maintain security and stability in the Arabian Gulf region – a top priority in our policy."

According to the president, there can be no exit from this "dark tunnel" without a collective consensus that prevents any party whatsoever to disrupt regional and international efforts to realise stability. He also called for adopting joint measures to hold terrorism sponsors, financiers and supporters accountable.

"We in the United Arab Emirates are at the forefront of the efforts aimed at restoring security and stability in sisterly Yemen, at returning Egypt to its natural leading role in the Arab World, and at restoring security and stability to Syria, Libya, Iraq, Lebanon, Somalia, Afghanistan and others. We are also among the countries that support efforts aimed at making the Middle East a region free from weapons of mass destruction," he declared.

Sheikh Khalifa stated that economic growth is not an end but rather a means to make life more balanced and moderate, reiterating that a development that does not integrate the cultural dimension is not sustainable.

Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also spoke on the occasion of the 46th National Day, where he said that the 46th anniversary of the establishment of the Union comes at a time UAE has become more stable and powerful.

He attributed the country's stability to the noble legacy passed down through the years and shaped the vision of the founding fathers who instilled values of patriotism and love for the homeland.

"We have already embarked on the UAE Centennial 2071 Strategy, which is a unique, future-oriented, long-term government plan aimed at sustaining UAE’s development into its 100th anniversary, charting a path and laying a solid foundation for the future of the UAE. Our objective is for future generations in the UAE to lead happier lives in a thriving environment with abundant opportunities, more connectivity and global influence," said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

He also noted that many people think that "we are just dreaming, but we remind these people of the fact that our Union started as a dream at the hands of visionary people," referring to the late Sheikh Zayed and his brother, late Sheikh Rashid.

The Sheikh also stated that Emirati people are the backbone of the country and the state’s most cherished asset.
Similarly, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, spoke on the National Day where he described the 2nd of December as a day that witnessed the establishment of a country that would become, within just a few decades, a model of successful state building and a fine example of a united and cohesive nation.

He reiterated that: "We will save no effort to foster and strengthen our unity and cohesiveness. As we renew this solemn pledge, we realize that our unity is the source of our strength in the face of adversities, and the point from which we move into building and growing our nation."

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that amid all the challenges facing nations around the world, maintaining stability is more pressing than ever.

"This is the path that our country will take so that it remains young and prosperous, so that its people enjoy a life of peace and prosperity, so that we keep our country in the vanguard of great nations," he concluded.



OIC Regrets Security Council's Failure to Accept Full UN Membership for Palestinian State

Vendors selling bread wait for customers at the Jaffa Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem on April 19, 2024. (AFP)
Vendors selling bread wait for customers at the Jaffa Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem on April 19, 2024. (AFP)
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OIC Regrets Security Council's Failure to Accept Full UN Membership for Palestinian State

Vendors selling bread wait for customers at the Jaffa Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem on April 19, 2024. (AFP)
Vendors selling bread wait for customers at the Jaffa Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem on April 19, 2024. (AFP)

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed on Friday its profound disappointment with the UN Security Council's decision to deny Palestine full UN membership.

The OIC strongly condemned the United States’ use of its veto power, which is a clear violation of the UN Charter and a major obstacle to the Palestinian people's right to self-determination.

It also reiterated its unwavering support for Palestine's right to full political and legal representation at the UN, a right long denied, and emphasized that recognizing the State of Palestine as a full UN member is essential to achieving peace and stability in the region, and paving the way for a viable two-state solution.

The OIC commended the countries that voted in favor of the draft resolution and urged those that voted against or abstained to reconsider their positions and align them with their obligations under international law, the UN Charter, and the relevant UN resolutions.

It said it views the Security Council’s failure to grant Palestine full membership as a continuation of the decades-long injustice toward the Palestinian people, calling on the international community to take immediate action to end this injustice once and for all.


GCC: Failure to Recognize Full UN Membership for Palestinians Does Not Help Achieve Peace

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.
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GCC: Failure to Recognize Full UN Membership for Palestinians Does Not Help Achieve Peace

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi emphasized on Friday the GCC’s firm position in support of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state according to the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

He urged the international community to work decisively and without delay to ensure the recognition of the State of Palestine and grant the Palestinian people their basic and legitimate rights in line with UN resolutions and international law.

Al-Budaiwi said the US veto of the Palestinian membership application to the UN is a step backward in the efforts to achieve just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

He stressed that the UN Security Council must take serious steps to re-evaluate international mechanisms concerning peace, to ensure that peoples’ rights are respected and regional and global security and stability are safeguarded.

He stressed that all countries and international organizations must stand by justice and support efforts to restore rights and build a better future for all the peoples of the region and the world.


Muslim World League Expresses Deep Regret over Obstructed Palestinian UN Membership

A general view taken from Jerusalem's Mount of Olives shows the holy city with the Dome of the Rock mosque in the center in the early hours of April 19, 2024. (AFP)
A general view taken from Jerusalem's Mount of Olives shows the holy city with the Dome of the Rock mosque in the center in the early hours of April 19, 2024. (AFP)
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Muslim World League Expresses Deep Regret over Obstructed Palestinian UN Membership

A general view taken from Jerusalem's Mount of Olives shows the holy city with the Dome of the Rock mosque in the center in the early hours of April 19, 2024. (AFP)
A general view taken from Jerusalem's Mount of Olives shows the holy city with the Dome of the Rock mosque in the center in the early hours of April 19, 2024. (AFP)

The Muslim World League (MWL) voiced on Friday its profound disappointment at the failure to grant Palestine full membership in the United Nations.

In a statement, the MWL said this was a severe setback that deepens the suffering of Palestinians and emboldens Israel to continue its abuses.

The decision is a significant obstacle to achieving a fair and enduring peace in the region, it warned. Additionally, it strengthens Israel's oppressive practices against the Palestinian people.

The MWL reiterated its demand that the international community shoulder its responsibility to stop Israeli aggression against civilians in Gaza.

Additionally, it called for backing the Palestinians' self-determination and the creation of a sovereign Palestinian nation within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital.


UAE Voices Deep Concern Over Ongoing Regional Tensions, Calls for Restraint 

UAE Voices Deep Concern Over Ongoing Regional Tensions, Calls for Restraint 
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UAE Voices Deep Concern Over Ongoing Regional Tensions, Calls for Restraint 

UAE Voices Deep Concern Over Ongoing Regional Tensions, Calls for Restraint 

The United Arab Emirates expressed on Friday its deep concern over ongoing regional tensions, calling for refraining from any steps that further exacerbate escalation in the region.

In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the UAE called for exercising the utmost restraint in order to avoid serious repercussions, and the region being pulled into new levels of instability.

The Ministry underlined the importance of reaching substantial solutions to the ongoing disputes and crises in the region aimed at de-escalating tensions, in addition to resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic channels, and for respecting the rule of law and United Nations Charter.

The Ministry reiterated its call on the UN and UN Security Council to fulfill their responsibilities to boost international peace and security by resolving long-standing issues and conflicts in the region that threaten global security and stability.

Earlier, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a telephone phone call with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to discuss the latest, dangerous developments in the region and their repercussions on the regional and international peace and security.

Sheikh Abdullah stressed the importance of exercising the utmost self-restraint and working to prevent the expansion of the circle of tension in the Middle East, pointing out that diplomacy and dialogue are the only way to resolve differences and ensure the security of the region and the safety of its people.

He said peace, prosperity and development are what the countries of the region should enjoy and deserve.

In addition, the top diplomats discussed bilateral relations between their countries and ways to strengthen them in a way that serves the common interests of their countries and the region.


UAE’s Etihad Airways Says Operations are Back to Normal

FILE PHOTO - An Etihad Airways Boeing 777-3FX company aircraft takes off at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy, France, August 9, 2016. REUTERS/Jacky Naegelen/File Photo
FILE PHOTO - An Etihad Airways Boeing 777-3FX company aircraft takes off at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy, France, August 9, 2016. REUTERS/Jacky Naegelen/File Photo
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UAE’s Etihad Airways Says Operations are Back to Normal

FILE PHOTO - An Etihad Airways Boeing 777-3FX company aircraft takes off at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy, France, August 9, 2016. REUTERS/Jacky Naegelen/File Photo
FILE PHOTO - An Etihad Airways Boeing 777-3FX company aircraft takes off at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy, France, August 9, 2016. REUTERS/Jacky Naegelen/File Photo

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways' flight operations are back to normal after the harsh weather conditions in the United Arab Emirates over recent days, the airline told state news agency (WAM) on Friday.
The UAE saw its heaviest rains in 75 years bringing much of the country to a standstill for two days.
The storm, which hit neighboring Oman on Sunday, pounded the UAE on Tuesday. Eighteen persons were reported dead in Oman.
A couple of days earlier, the UAE’s National Center for Meteorology urged people to take the necessary precautions while driving their vehicles and to steer away from roads that could be blocked by flood waters.


Saudi Arabia Expresses Regret over UN Failure to Recognize Palestinian State through Membership

Saudi Arabia Expresses Regret over UN Failure to Recognize Palestinian State through Membership
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Saudi Arabia Expresses Regret over UN Failure to Recognize Palestinian State through Membership

Saudi Arabia Expresses Regret over UN Failure to Recognize Palestinian State through Membership

Saudi Arabia expressed regret on Friday over the failure of the UN Security Council to adopt a draft resolution accepting full membership of the State of Palestine in the United Nations.
The Ministry said that “hindering the acceptance of full membership of the State of Palestine in the United Nations only contributes to the entrenchment of the Israeli occupation’s obstinacy and to its continued violations of international law with impunity, and will not bring closer the desired peace”.
The Ministry renewed Saudi Arabia’s call on the international community to assume its responsibility and stop the Israeli occupation’s aggression on civilians in the Gaza strip.
It also called for backing the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of the Palestinian State based on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital in accordance with the Arab peace initiative and related international resolutions.


Saudi Arabia, Pakistan Seek to Bolster Security, Defense Ties

Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday on a two-day visit. (Pakistan's Ministry of Defense)
Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday on a two-day visit. (Pakistan's Ministry of Defense)
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Saudi Arabia, Pakistan Seek to Bolster Security, Defense Ties

Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday on a two-day visit. (Pakistan's Ministry of Defense)
Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday on a two-day visit. (Pakistan's Ministry of Defense)

Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday on a two-day visit to put the finishing touches on bilateral defense projects, said the Pakistani Defense Ministry in a statement.

His trip is fresh off the heels of a two-day visit paid by a senior Saudi delegation, headed by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, to Islamabad on Monday.

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf al-Malki told Asharq Al-Awsat that Prince Faisal’s visit was an extension of the “lasting relations with Pakistan.”

It underscored the depth of these ties and their constant development, he added.

The visit aimed to increase the trade exchange and support investors and expand their work in all sectors, he went on to say.

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have increased their defense consultations and Al-Otaibi's visit will follow up on these talks.

The two countries have held four rounds of defense consultations in less than a month.

On March 20, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received Pakistan’s army commander Asim Munir.

Days later, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman paid an official visit to Pakistan.

Prince Khalid held talks with Pakistani officials, including the army commander. They tackled the strong relations between their countries and their strategic defense partnership and opportunities to develop it.

The third round of the defense talks took place this week when Prince Faisal met with Munir in Islamabad. They discussed the security and strategic cooperation between their countries and means to boost it in several fields.

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan enjoy close military ties. They regularly carry out joint defense projects and have held defense maneuvers and drills.


Saudi, Spanish FMs Discuss Gaza Conflict 

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah talks to journalists during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart at the foreign ministry in Islamabad, Pakistan, 16 April 2024. (EPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah talks to journalists during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart at the foreign ministry in Islamabad, Pakistan, 16 April 2024. (EPA)
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Saudi, Spanish FMs Discuss Gaza Conflict 

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah talks to journalists during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart at the foreign ministry in Islamabad, Pakistan, 16 April 2024. (EPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah talks to journalists during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart at the foreign ministry in Islamabad, Pakistan, 16 April 2024. (EPA)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held a telephone call on Thursday with his Spanish counterpart Jose Manuel Albares.

They discussed the latest developments in the region, primarily focusing on the situation in and around the Gaza Strip and the efforts to address it.


King Salman Receives Written Message from King of Bahrain 

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and Supervisor General of the Public Diplomacy Agency, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi meets with Bahrain’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa in Riyadh. (SPA)
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and Supervisor General of the Public Diplomacy Agency, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi meets with Bahrain’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa in Riyadh. (SPA)
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King Salman Receives Written Message from King of Bahrain 

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and Supervisor General of the Public Diplomacy Agency, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi meets with Bahrain’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa in Riyadh. (SPA)
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and Supervisor General of the Public Diplomacy Agency, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi meets with Bahrain’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa in Riyadh. (SPA)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud received on Thursday a written message from Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa concerning relations between the two countries.

The message was received by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and Supervisor General of the Public Diplomacy Agency, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi during a meeting with Bahrain’s Ambassador to Riyadh Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa.

The officials reviewed relations between their countries and ways to boost them in various fields.

They also discussed issues of common interest.


Saudi, Belgian FMs Discuss Gaza Situation

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
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Saudi, Belgian FMs Discuss Gaza Situation

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received a phone call on Friday from Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Federal Cultural Institutions Hadja Lahbib.

The two ministers discussed the latest regional developments, focusing on the situation in and around the Gaza Strip and related diplomatic efforts.