Australian premier visits UAE to boost ties

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed welcomed Australian prime minister Tony Abbott who is in the UAE for an official visit.

ABU DHABI // The Australian prime minister, Tony Abbott, arrived in the UAE yesterday to discuss trade and cooperation between the two countries.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces met Mr Abbott and examined ways to boost relations, especially in the trade and investment sectors, the state news agency Wam reported.

Sheikh Mohammed also discussed current political events in the Middle East with the prime minister and challenges the region faces.

Mr Abbott, who was elected as Australian prime minister in September, said he was happy to visit the UAE and stressed his country’s desire to develop bilateral relations with the country in all fields.

The meeting was also attended by Dr Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

newsdesk@thenational.ae

Updated: October 29, 2013, 12:00 AM