In a significant step towards enhancing defence collaboration, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and French President Emmanuel Macron witnessed the exchange of a framework for a strategic defence partnership between the UAE and France. The announcement was made during a formal visit by President Macron to the UAE.
Key Figures in the Agreement
The exchange of the partnership framework was conducted by Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence, on behalf of the UAE, and Catherine Colonna, Minister for the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, representing France. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations.
Defence Industry Engagement
Further to the initial agreements, Sheikh Mohamed and President Macron also oversaw the exchange of executive arrangements related to the defence industries. This aspect of the partnership was facilitated by Dr. Nasser Hamid Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Defence Empowerment Council, and Patrick Belloc, Head of the French Directorate General of Armament.
Industrial Visits in Abu Dhabi
As part of the visit, the two leaders toured the Tawazun Industrial Complex in Abu Dhabi. The tour included visits to several key companies, including ADASI, EPI, HALCON, and POWERTCH, all part of the EDGE Group. The facility is well-known for its advanced manufacturing capabilities and infrastructure, specifically designed to support defence and aerospace industries.
Future Cooperation and Development
During the tour, Sheikh Mohamed and President Macron were briefed on a range of innovative products from various manufacturing facilities within the complex. The discussions highlighted initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration with local, regional, and global companies, facilitating their capacity to expand and enhance their operations.
Accompanying Delegation
The visit was accompanied by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Head of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President, along with various ministers and governmental officials.
This new strategic partnership signifies a robust commitment to strengthening defence relations and outlining future collaborative pathways between the United Arab Emirates and France.
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