UAE-Russia ties are significant: Ministers

Abu Dhabi - "Russia is UAE's great partner in the field of military and in the fight against extremism, terrorists and narcotics." Sheikh Abdullah said.

The growing cooperation between the UAE and Russia in terms of trade, tourism, military and space signifies future achievements for both countries, said Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
"The UAE is pleased with the great bilateral relationship with Russia, which has enabled us to schedule our first trip to the space," he said while speaking at a joint Press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday.
He said trade exchange between the two countries exceeded $3 billion (Dh11 billion) in 2018, a 21 per cent increase compared to the previous year, while the number of Russian tourists to the UAE reached 820,000.
"Russia is UAE's great partner in the field of military and in the fight against extremism, terrorists and narcotics." Sheikh Abdullah said, adding that Russia has expressed great interest in the participation of Expo 2020, especially in the transport sector.
Lavrov said his country was happy with the recent signing of a historic agreement of cooperation between the UAE and Russia in the field of trade, nuclear energy and space.
"We shall continue to work hand in hand to fight terrorism and extremism in the Arab region as we also look forward to political solutions and dialogue in the countries like Syria and others that face conflicts," said Lavrov.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi