EU envoy seeks more talks with UAE in fight against terror

In an interview with Khaleej Times, Patrizio Fondi shares his vision on fighting extremists, about challenges UAE faces and his aim to make EU known among Emiratis

The newly appointed EU Ambassador to the UAE, Patrizio Fondi, may have only spent seven months in Abu Dhabi. But he is keen to make the EU more known among people living in all the seven emirates, in particular the youth.
In an interview with Khaleej Times, the EU envoy shares his vision on fighting extremists, UK's Brexit policy and his personal life.
What do you think are the challenges faced by the UAE?
Patrizio Fondi: Undoubtedly, the most relevant challenge is to maintain the present atmosphere of security and serenity in the country, in spite of the increasing turbulence of the region.
It is a necessity to ensure the blossoming of tourism and investments, taking also into account the strong will to pursue the diversification of the economy.
The other important challenge, in my opinion, is to convince people to have a healthier lifestyle and to practise sports, to reduce diseases such as diabetes.
What are your priorities in your role, as EU envoy to the UAE?
My task is to develop the relations between the EU and the UAE in all possible fields, in the common interest and with a view to forge a strong strategic partnership. At the same time, I have to make the EU more known among people living here in all the seven Emirates, in particular the young generation.
What is your stance on fighting terrorism?
I think countries need to join together to fight terrorism wherever it is. The UAE's alliance with Saudi Arabia was a big statement. It was their way of saying "we are fighting terrorism".
I want to improve the EU's dialogue with the UAE in the fight against terror. I think it is a factor of cohesion between the Gulf states and the EU that we need.
Personally, I think we need to understand the psychology of terrorists. In many cases these are people who want to revolutionise but don't have the right platform to do so. That's why they go on to join terror movements because they feel wanted and needed. But to change this trend and mind-set is not easy.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming EU referendum?
Politically speaking, if the UK leaves the EU it will affect us as it is an important member stepping out. But I think they will be rational about the decision. In the worst scenario if the UK does leave, the impact will be a moment of reflection for the EU, but it will survive. However, we hope they stay because we are linked in history and any weakening of the EU is not good.
How many countries in the EU have an established UAE embassy? For the countries without an embassy, are there any plans to establish a UAE embassy?
At the moment, there are 22 EU member states with an established embassy in the UAE. Others could follow.
What would you say is the most popular destination in Europe when it comes to Emiratis travelling?
I have the impression that - especially after the visa waiver agreement - Emiratis are willing to travel to different EU countries for tourism and business, however I think that UK, France, Germany and Italy remains the preferred destinations.
The introduction of the Schengen visa for Emiratis travelling to Europe has been very well received, why do you think this is? Why was the UAE the only Gulf country given that privilege?
The signature of the Schengen visa-waiver agreement between the EU and the UAE last year was a landmark step in our relations.
The UAE is currently implementing various reforms and initiatives to reach zero dependency from oil revenues by 2050. It has brought in the forefront such domains as trade, transport and tourism.
This visa waiver will facilitate contacts in the various fields mentioned and will further strengthen mutual understanding between our peoples. Therefore, it will give a further boost to the European & Emirati tourism industries and to the economies of both.
Your favourite pastime here.
To go to the beach in the morning and to a cultural event in the evening is the perfect day for me.
Your educational background.
I received a Master's Degree in Public Administration after a Degree in Law from Rome University. I have more than 30 years of diplomatic experience, serving different roles in the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In which other countries have you previously worked?
Before my present role, I was the Ambassador of Italy to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Diplomatic Advisor to the Italian Minister of Cultural Heritage and Activities.
I also served as Deputy Permanent Representative of Italy to Unesco and BIE (Bureau International des Expositions) in Paris. Before that, I worked in Italian Diplomatic Missions in Tirana, New York ( United Nations) and Stockholm.
Are you here with your family? If so, tell us about them.
While my spouse is a journalist working in Paris and travels as often as she can to the UAE, I have my mother with me. In spite of her age, she is very happy to discover a new country and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the UAE. She likes cultural events and lately was delighted to attend the concert of the Chinese pianist Lang Lang in Abu Dhabi.
 kelly@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai