UAE and African Union Commission Strengthen Ties at High-Level Meeting in Addis Ababa

Addis ababa: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the African Union Commission (AUC) recently held a significant high-level meeting in Addis Ababa, marking a continuation of their collaborative efforts. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AUC, led the discussions aimed at enhancing the UAE-AU partnership under the framework of the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding. According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting built on the foundations laid during the first round of political consultations in Abu Dhabi in September 2025. Both parties reviewed accomplishments since the inaugural talks, exchanged perspectives on priority cooperation areas, and reiterated their commitment to ongoing political dialogue. Key topics of discussion included Agenda 2063 and its flagship initiative 'Silencing the Guns by 2030,' alongside the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The talks highlighted the connection between peace, security, trade, and developm ent, and both parties agreed to intensify cooperation to support these strategic priorities. The UAE and AUC welcomed the UAE's US$1 billion 'AI for Development' initiative, announced at the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, recognizing its potential to bolster Africa's development through innovation and digital transformation. The meeting also addressed peace and security in the Horn of Africa, emphasizing the link between stability in the region and security in the Arabian Gulf. Discussions included the situation in Sudan, where both sides called for a humanitarian truce and a permanent ceasefire, and reiterated support for Sudan's territorial integrity and a peaceful settlement. On Somalia, the UAE and AUC affirmed their support for the nation's sovereignty and stability. They also addressed the issue of the UAE's three occupied islands (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa), calling for a peaceful resolution in accordance with international law. Finally, in light of the 2026 AU theme on water an d sanitation, both parties highlighted the upcoming United Nations Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal. They committed to working closely to achieve measurable impacts across Africa, particularly through initiatives like the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative. Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to deepening cooperation in support of peace, stability, and sustainable development.