Nicosia: On behalf of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, took part in the ceremony marking Cyprus' assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
According to Emirates News Agency, Lana Nusseibeh conveyed the greetings and congratulations of UAE leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, to the Cypriot leadership. She expressed wishes for continued progress and prosperity for Cyprus and its people.
Lana Nusseibeh reaffirmed the strong relations and strategic ties between the UAE and Cyprus, highlighting Cyprus' role as a trusted partner for the UAE in Europe. She noted Cyprus' importance in supporting dialogue and cooperation across the Mediterranean region and Europe. EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized Cyprus's significant role in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and the cooperation between Cyprus and the UAE in sending relief goods through the 'Amalthea' maritime corridor.
Lana Nusseibeh stated that Cyprus' Presidency of the Council of the EU is an opportunity to strengthen UAE-EU ties in support of shared goals related to stability, development, and prosperity. Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, echoed this sentiment, highlighting progress in trade negotiations with the UAE and the EU's eagerness to conclude the agreement for mutual benefit.
She also mentioned that her visit builds on the momentum of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's recent visit to Cyprus, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to elevate their strategic partnership.
During her two-day visit to Nicosia, Lana Nusseibeh held meetings with Cypriot Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, and Deputy Foreign Minister, Marilena Raouna, discussing collaboration in economic engagement, humanitarian efforts, regional developments, and multilateral cooperation. She also met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, to discuss bilateral ties and regional developments.
Lana Nusseibeh's delegation included Mohammed Saif Helal Mohammed Alshehhi, UAE Ambassador to Cyprus, and Mohamed Al Sahlawi, UAE ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the EU.
