Abu dhabi: The UAE-EU Dialogue on Human Rights convened its 13th meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The session highlighted significant developments, ongoing efforts, and the exchange of information, expertise, and best practices in human rights across the UAE and the European Union.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting addressed several issues of mutual interest, including labour rights, women's rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law, combating human trafficking, digital technology and human rights, and coordination within United Nations human rights bodies, mechanisms, and committees.
The UAE delegation was led by Saeed Al Hebsi, Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with participation from the Ministry's Strategic Communications Department, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The European Union delegation was led by Anna-Maria Panagiotakopoulou, Head of the Arabian Peninsula and Iraq Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
During the meeting, Al Hebsi stated that the UAE welcomes dialogue and discussion with its partners, which provides an opportunity to showcase the UAE's efforts and progress in human rights. He also noted that the UAE continues to build bridges through dialogue and cooperation with strategic partners by implementing training programmes and exchanging expertise and best practices in promoting and protecting human rights.
The European delegation commended the UAE's continuous progress in human rights, particularly regarding women's empowerment and their role in promoting peace and security. It also praised the official launch of negotiations between the UAE and the European Union concerning a Strategic Partnership Agreement.