Sheikh Abdullah and Russia's Sergey Lavrov discuss efforts to contain Covid-19

The two foreign ministers also discussed ways to improve their nations' cooperation during a phone call

Sheikh Abdullah, pictured in a meeting with Sergei Lavrov in Abu Dhabi last year, spoke over the phone on Friday about how the pandemic could be tackled. AFP

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, discussed the spread of Covid-19 with his Russian counterpart on Friday.

During the phone call, Sheikh Abdullah and Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, talked about the importance of exchanging expertise and knowledge about the virus, advanced testing and supporting international efforts to develop a vaccine.

They also spoke about the UAE and Russia's efforts to contain the disease and ways to improve general cooperation between the countries, according to a statement on state news agency Wam.

In addition, they discussed international issues of common interest, including the situation in Libya, during which Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the UAE's support for the political process.

Sheikh Abdullah spoke positively about the efforts made by Egypt, adding that the security of Libya is an integral part of the national security of Egypt and the Arab region.

The phone call came days after Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke about ways to improve co-operation between their countries.