In a whirlwind diplomatic visit, Lana Nusseibeh, the UAE’s Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, made waves in Brussels with a series of high-level meetings aimed at strengthening the relationship between the UAE and the European Union. During her productive trip from January 28-30, Nusseibeh engaged with some of the most influential figures within the EU, furthering UAE-EU ties and exploring new opportunities for collaboration on regional stability, economic cooperation, security, and a range of global challenges.
The packed agenda included a wide variety of meetings, with Nusseibeh starting off by discussing recent European political dynamics with Thanasis Bakolas, Secretary-General of the European People’s Party. One of the focal points of her meetings was the situation in Sudan and its broader implications for regional stability. With the EU having a vested interest in addressing the ongoing crisis, Nusseibeh held detailed talks with Annette Weber, the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, on the matter. The discussions were focused on collaborative strategies to foster stability in Sudan and the region as a whole.
Further enhancing UAE-EU relations, Nusseibeh met with other key figures, including MEP Tomas Zdechovsky, MEP Hana Jalloul Muro, and MEP Hilde Vautmans, Chair of the Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly, where they delved into security priorities and regional developments. Additionally, trade and economic relations took center stage as Nusseibeh held conversations with Sabine Weyand, Director-General for Trade at the European Commission. They explored strategies to enhance the UAE-EU trade relationship and foster greater economic collaboration between the two regions.
Throughout the visit, Nusseibeh emphasized the UAE’s commitment to advancing shared objectives with the EU, particularly in the realms of diplomacy, trade, and sustainable development. She also participated in the 3rd High-Level Dialogue hosted by the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, where she contributed valuable insights on peacekeeping and diplomatic challenges alongside other international leaders.
