Statement by the Chair on the passing of the UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Parliament's Chair of the Delegation for Relations with the Arab Peninsula (DARP) Hannah Neumann issued the following statement:

"I learnt with sadness of the sudden passing of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. On behalf of the European Parliament's Delegation for relations with Arab Peninsula, I express, together with my colleagues, my deepest condolences to his family, to the people and to the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Under Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan leadership, the UAE embarked on an unprecedented era of growth and modernization, which made the country one of the emerging powerhouses in the region and a global centre for commerce, cultural exchange, and tourism.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan dedicated his life to public service. He will also be remembered for the historic deal between his country and Israel, known as the Abraham Accords, which were signed during his rule in 2020.

I also congratulate his successor, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his election as President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and I wish the people of the Emirates further prosperity and advancement under Sheikh Mohamed's leadership.

The European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with the Arab Peninsula will continue to work towards consolidating a strong and enduring political and parliamentary partnership with the United Arab Emirates and its Federal National Council".

Press contact:

Office of Hannah Neumann - tel. +32 2 28 45705 - e-mail: hannah.neumann@ep.europa.eu

Delegation for Relations with Arab Peninsula Secretariat - e-mail: darp@ep.europa.eu