On May 10, 2026, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, received an important written message from Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, the President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. This correspondence focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressed recent regional developments, including the condemnation of Iranian attacks on the UAE. The message was delivered by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, during his meeting with Dr. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, the Mauritanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Cooperation.
Discussion on Regional Developments
During their meeting, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and Dr. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug explored current regional events, particularly the implications of Iranian terrorist attacks targeting civilian sites and infrastructure in the UAE using missiles and drones. Both leaders expressed strong condemnation of these acts, characterizing them as a blatant violation of international law, the United Nations Charter, and a direct threat to the security and stability of the UAE.
Right to Self-Defense Emphasized
Both Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and Dr. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug affirmed the UAE’s legitimate right to respond to these aggressive actions, ensuring the protection of its sovereignty, national security, and the safety of its citizens and residents. This stance underscores the nation’s commitment to adhere to international legal standards while safeguarding its interests.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Cooperation
The meeting further delved into the longstanding brotherly relations between the UAE and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. The leaders discussed ways to enhance collaborative efforts across various sectors to serve the mutual interests of both nations and their peoples. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed highlighted the depth of the relationship and the shared ambitions of both countries to foster ongoing bilateral cooperation, aiming to expand opportunities that would ultimately lead to mutual prosperity and development.
Key Attendees in the Meeting
The meeting was attended by Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State, and Sheikh Nahyan bin Sif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Deputy Minister of State, further emphasizing the importance placed on the discussions regarding Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s receipt of a message from the President of Mauritania and its implications for future cooperation.