ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in diplomatic discussions with Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein during a Sunday meeting in Abu Dhabi. The talks primarily centered on strengthening the bonds between the UAE and Jordan, including exploring avenues to enhance bilateral collaboration. Additionally, the leaders examined recent regional developments and pressing issues of mutual interest. Emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue, they reiterated the need for sustained consultation on regional security, stability, and the pursuit of enduring peace. King Abdullah was accompanied by a senior Jordanian delegation during his visit to the UAE.
During their discussions, the leaders reviewed cooperation in the fields of economic, trade, and development activities under the umbrella of the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties across sectors aligned with their respective national development priorities. They also examined strategies to expand bilateral cooperation in areas of shared interest. The relationship between the two nations is characterized by extensive political and economic engagement, complemented by regular high-level consultations. Their latest encounter underscored the significance of both bilateral development initiatives and regional coordination efforts on their agenda.
King Abdullah arrived in Abu Dhabi with Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. Sheikh Mohamed extended a warm welcome to the Jordanian monarch upon his arrival. Senior officials from the UAE, including Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also participated in the discussions. Additionally, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan were present, reflecting the broad scope of bilateral issues addressed during the visit.
Economic Cooperation Between the UAE and Jordan Grows
The key framework facilitating the expansion of economic ties between the UAE and Jordan is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The two nations signed this accord on October 6, 2024, with it coming into force on May 15, 2025. Notably, this agreement marked the UAE’s first comprehensive economic partnership with an Arab country. It maintains trade liberalization for over 98% of tariff lines, and also covers sectors such as services, investment, digital trade, customs collaboration, and support mechanisms for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The agreement offers preferential treatment for goods that satisfy the applicable rules of origin and technical criteria, encompassing more than 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan. It includes provisions aimed at streamlining customs procedures and enhancing investment cooperation. Furthermore, the agreement establishes committees and designated focal points to oversee its implementation. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah emphasized the importance of economic, trade, and development cooperation as critical areas for further strengthening the relations between the two countries.
Focus on Regional Security and Long-Term Stability
Addressing regional issues was a significant aspect of the Abu Dhabi talks. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged views on regional developments impacting the Middle East and the broader stability of the area. Both leaders highlighted the necessity of continued coordination between the UAE and Jordan, linking this collaboration to efforts aimed at reinforcing security and regional stability. They also reiterated their backing for initiatives seeking a sustainable and lasting peace, keeping the focus on shared regional challenges during their discussions.
Later on Sunday, King Abdullah departed Abu Dhabi after the conclusion of the talks. Sheikh Mohamed was present alongside senior UAE officials to bid him farewell. This visit exemplifies the ongoing pattern of regular engagement between the two leaders concerning bilateral and regional issues. The Abu Dhabi meeting seamlessly combined economic partnership discussions with consultations on Middle East affairs, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to maintaining close coordination across economic, developmental, and regional fronts.