Cyprus News Agency

Russian President Putin met with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Putin said the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the UAE would be marked in December this year.

Putin said significant changes had taken place over the years both in the world and in relations between the two countries, adding, “The UAE has become one of our closest partners in the region.”

Noting that economic relations between the two countries are progressing well and that trade volume continues to grow, Putin said cooperation is not limited to the economy but also includes political cooperation and security issues.

Putin said the region is going through a difficult period and that Russia continues to maintain regular contacts with the UAE leadership. Asking that his greetings be conveyed to UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Putin said officials from the two countries make reciprocal visits and discuss various issues.

Putin said he discusses the most important and urgent issues with the UAE President by telephone, stating, “Despite all the challenges we face today, I am confident that the situation will stabilize.”

Stating that relations between Russia and the UAE will continue and strengthen, Putin said it was important during the meeting to hear the UAE's assessments of current developments in the region and its views on how those developments might unfold.