ABU DHABI // Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, received the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General on Friday in Abu Dhabi where they discussed ways to strengthen relations through partnerships in humanitarian and developmental fields.
Sheikh Abdullah and Ban Ki-moon also discussed current regional and global developments, including efforts to counter terrorism.
The meeting was attended by Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State, as well as Khaldoon Mubarak, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority, and Yacoub Al Hosani, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for International Organisations.
As part of his visit to the UAE, the UN chief delivered a master class to students, alumni and faculty at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy.
He shared insights from his career while engaging students in a discussion over contemporary diplomatic challenges and opportunities, ranging from climate action to women and youth empowerment.
Addressing the academy’s students, many of whom have just returned from the UN General Assembly in New York and the COP 22 climate change negotiations in Marrakesh, he commended the UAE leadership’s efforts for a collaborative approach on global issues as well as the country’s important role in the UN.
The secretary-general also praised the close collaboration between the UAE and the UN, which resulted in progress on issues such as sustainable development, human rights, alleviation of poverty and regional security.
