THE Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendiashad a meeting yesterday, in Abu Dhabi, with new UAE Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Mohamed Bin Mubarak Bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei.

During the meeting the two ministers discussed further strengthening the strategic defense relations between Greece and the United Arab Emiratesas provided for in the Agreement for the Cooperation of the two countries in Foreign Policy and Defense.

The Agreement was signed by Mr. Dendias as Minister of Foreign Affairs, with his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyanon November 18, 2020.

The common will of the two sides to defend peace and stability in the wider region, based on the rules of International Law, was also emphasized.

In addition, Mr. Dendias and Mr. Al Mazrouei discussed the situation in Gaza and the Red Sea, followed by an update regarding the European Union’s Operation ASPIDES and Greece’s leading role in defending freedom of navigation.

Also in the context of its implementation “Agenda 2030” and following the relevant contacts made by the Greek Minister of National Defense last September, there was an exchange of views regarding the participation of the UAE in the Defense Innovation Ecosystem of our country.

Also, Mr. Dendias also had a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAESheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan.