OREANDA-NEWS. March 04, 2010. While in Abu Dhabi on March 1-2, Alexander Saltanov, Russia's Special Presidential Representative for the Middle East and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Consultations were also held with a UAE MFA delegation headed by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash.

The contacts have confirmed the identity or similarity of the parties’ assessments with respect to a wide range of international and regional problems. In examining the situation in the Near and Middle East, the parties expressed concern over the growth of tension there. In this connection they underlined their shared commitment to strengthen the nuclear nonproliferation regime and to find a diplomatic solution to the problem of Iran’s nuclear program, and the readiness to help improve the atmosphere at different points of instability in the region. The parties spoke for reinvigorating efforts toward resumption of the Arab-Israeli settlement process on a generally recognized international legal basis, for the success of which a complete cessation of Israel’s settlement activity is required. Hope was expressed for a successful and trouble-free parliamentary election in Iraq and further normalization in the country on the basis of reaching a national consensus involving all major Iraqi political forces.

The parties discussed the state of and prospects for Russia-UAE cooperation in the trade, economic and investment fields. They noted the special importance of intensifying the work to expand ties in advanced areas and providing favorable conditions for the activity of entrepreneurs of both countries in promoting innovative projects. An exchange of views took place on readying for and holding the next session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission and on improving its performance in general.

The parties also considered plans to develop Russian engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with the UAE representatives speaking out in support of a qualitative upgrading of ties between the Russian Federation and the GCC.