Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, met with Suren Papikyan, Minister of Defence of Armenia, on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow, which is ongoing at the Dubai World Central until 21 November. During their meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan extended a warm welcome to Papikyan and emphasized the robust bilateral relations between the UAE and Armenia, underscoring a mutual interest in expanding cooperation across various sectors, including defence, development, technology, and future industries to achieve strategic goals for both countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Hamdan articulated the UAE's perspective that defence cooperation is pivotal for fostering global peace and development. He stressed that stability is a cornerstone for economic growth, investment, and advancement across all sectors. In response, Papikyan conveyed Armenia's gratitude toward the UAE, expressing a keen interest in exploring further collaborations in light of the growing economic, cultural, and technological ties between the two nations.
Papikyan also remarked on the significance of the Dubai Airshow as a premier venue for defence leaders and aerospace experts worldwide to connect, collaborate, and gain insights into the latest industry trends. He acknowledged the UAE's leading role and its continuous efforts to enhance cooperation that bolsters regional and global security.
The discussion between the two leaders covered cooperation in augmenting conventional and future defence capabilities, modern systems, and personnel training to efficiently utilize advanced technologies while ensuring operational readiness. Additionally, they reviewed regional and international developments, efforts to promote peace and stability, and other areas of shared interest.
The meeting saw the attendance of several key figures, including Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs; Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; and Major General Khalifa Rashid Al Hamli, Director of the Office of the Minister of Defence.