ABU DHABI // The UAE is a powerful voice in condemning extremist acts and a strong partner in the coalition fighting terrorism, the Australian foreign minister said on Tuesday.
Julie Bishop, who is visiting the UAE to discuss security challenges and economic interests, said: “We see the issue of global terrorism as our major national security priority. Countering terrorism is a priority for us.”
Speaking before a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Ms Bishop, went on: “The risk has increased in recent times because of the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters, that is Australian citizens being radicalised and going overseas to Syria and Iraq and fighting with these brutal terrorist organisations, including ISIL.”
At least 180 Australians were contributing to the suffering and conflict in Iraq and Syria, Ms Bishop said. “But it could be more. So we have a national security issue ourselves in stopping Australians taking part in these terrorist organisations.
“I have met the Foreign Minister on a number of occasions and we’ve discussed our level of cooperation in working to counter terrorism.
“The UAE has been very supportive in global forums, including at the United Nations. When there was a terrorist incident in Sydney recently, there was a very powerful message sent from the UAE to Australia condemning this kind of radicalisation and extremism.”
Ms Bishop also visited Australian military and about 400 civilian personnel in Afghanistan this week for Australia Day.
“Afghanistan still faces significant security challenges with the Taliban,” she said. “There are enormous security challenges in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Libya, this part of the world, and terrorism is now more diversified, more dangerous and more global than ever before.
“So there are many countries reporting that they have citizens who are taking part in these terrorist organisations. It’s a global threat and something that countries like Australia and the UAE take very seriously.”
She said the UAE’s geographic location was important to maintain security in the region.
“The fight against this kind of extremism is not just one for western democracies. This is a threat to governments around the world, this phenomenon of non-state actors who have no regard for boundaries, governments or laws, is a threat to nation states globally. So the UAE, as a responsible global citizen, has a role to play in co-operating with other countries who seek to destroy this threat.”
Ms Bishop also discussed Australia strengthening trade ties with the Arabian Gulf.
“We are seeking to conclude a free-trade agreement with the GCC. This is a priority for us. We have a significant presence here with more than 350 Australian companies registered in the UAE and 2,000 Australian companies which export products to the UAE.”
Ms Bishop also met James Hogan, Etihad Airways chief executive, to discuss an increase in flights between the countries.
“There is already a significant two-way aviation relationship with 266 flights a week between four airlines,” she said. “And there are plans for more flights.”
cmalek@thenational.ae
