Fico Discusses Stronger Ties with UAE President in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, 20 October (TASR) – Prime Minister Robert Fico held talks on Monday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation, TASR learnt from the Government Office's press department. The two leaders discussed deepening ties in areas such as trade, renewable energy, innovation, future technologies, and culture. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy during times of crisis. „The President of the United Arab Emirates is known for his innovative approach to governance and strong international relations with world leaders, including the presidents of the United States, China, and the Russian Federation," said Fico. „It is therefore not surprising that a significant part of our meeting focused on the war in Ukraine, where we both believe there is no military solution. We place great hopes in the upcoming Trump–Putin summit in Budapest," he added. During the Prime Minister’s visit to Abu Dhabi, Slovakia and the UAE signed an agreement to strengthen mutual economic relations and a memorandum to boost investment ties. The documents were signed by Slovak Deputy Economy Minister Vladimir Simonak and the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade. „After a long personal discussion with the President, I am fully convinced that we have found common ground for cooperation in transport infrastructure — including the Danube port — as well as in the defence industry, where new opportunities are opening up for Slovak companies," Fico stated. He also mentioned that Sheikh Al Nahyan is prepared to visit Slovakia. Fico concluded by noting that his official visit to the UAE lasted less than 24 hours. The Slovak delegation included Defence Minister Robert Kalinak, Transport Minister Jozef Raz, Agriculture Minister Richard Takac, and Deputy Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Economy Marek Estok and Vladimir Simonak. mf