The United Arab Emirates' Ambassador to Russia, Omar Saif Ghobash, met with Mikhail Bogdanov, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, in Moscow on June 2nd, 2024. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the UAE and Russia, along with exchanging views on regional developments.
Ghobash and Bogdanov reportedly emphasized the importance of solidifying the strategic partnership between their respective nations. This partnership encompasses political, economic, and trade cooperation. The discussion also reportedly delved into the ongoing war in Ukraine and its global ramifications.
The UAE has positioned itself as a neutral party in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. Throughout the crisis, the UAE has maintained communication channels with both Russia and Ukraine.
The UAE and Russia have increasingly collaborated on various fronts in recent years. Both nations participate in the OPEC+ oil producer alliance, which aims to influence global oil prices. They have also found common ground on regional security issues, particularly regarding the Middle East.
The meeting comes amidst heightened global food insecurity concerns caused by the war in Ukraine. The UAE, a major logistics hub, has emerged as a potential corridor for delivering humanitarian aid and essential supplies to the region.
While the details of the meeting regarding the Ukraine war remain undisclosed, it is likely that Ghobash and Bogdanov discussed the potential ramifications of the conflict on global food supplies and the role the UAE could play in mitigating the crisis.
The UAE has also been a vocal advocate for a diplomatic solution to the ongoing war in Yemen. The country is part of the Saudi-led coalition that intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015. However, the UAE has since reduced its military presence in Yemen and has called for a ceasefire and peace talks between the warring parties.
It is possible that the discussions between Ghobash and Bogdanov also touched upon the situation in Yemen, with both sides potentially exploring areas of cooperation in fostering a peaceful resolution to the conflict.