On August 5, 2026, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, welcomed Dr. Mamadou Tangara, the Special Representative of the African Union for Mali and the Sahel, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the African Union, with the aim of supporting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Sahel region.
Strengthening UAE-African Union Relations
During their discussion, Sheikh Shakhboot expressed the UAE’s commitment to backing African efforts to bolster security and stability. This commitment aligns with the UAE’s collaborative approach to partnerships with nations and regional organisations, fostering development and prosperity for the continent’s people.
Regional Cooperation and Ongoing Challenges
Sheikh Shakhboot also highlighted the important role of the African Union in promoting dialogue and regional cooperation. He underscored the necessity of continued coordination with various regional and international partners to support African-led solutions to the challenges facing the Sahel region.
Mutual Appreciation for Development Initiatives
In response, Dr. Tangara expressed his gratitude for the UAE’s contributions to development and stability in Africa. He emphasised the value of the partnership with the African Union and asserted the importance of ongoing collaboration in priority areas that can enhance security and sustainable development in the Sahel region.