UAE President, Italian President discuss strengthening strategic partnership during Abu Dhabi talks

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday held talks with Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, to explore ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation and advance the UAE–Italy strategic partnership, in line with the two nations’ shared commitment to prosperity and sustainable development.

The talks took place at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, where His Highness welcomed President Mattarella during his state visit to the UAE and expressed appreciation for his efforts to further deepen relations between the two countries.

President Mattarella conveyed his pleasure at visiting the UAE, noting that the relationship between the two nations is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared ambition to promote development and prosperity for their peoples. The two leaders reviewed a range of cooperation areas aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties, with particular focus on the economy, investment, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, sustainability, and cultural exchange.

The discussions also covered regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both sides stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomatic solutions to conflicts, as well as the need to foster peace and stability at the regional and global levels in a manner that serves the interests of all.

Sheikh Mohamed highlighted that UAE–Italy relations have seen steady progress since their establishment in 1971. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to building on recent achievements and leveraging new opportunities to advance a shared future vision, emphasizing cultural cooperation as a key bridge for strengthening mutual understanding and promoting shared values.

Following the talks, His Highness hosted a luncheon in honor of President Mattarella and the accompanying delegation.

The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President, along with a number of ministers, senior UAE officials, and members of the Italian delegation.

Upon his arrival at Qasr Al Shati, President Mattarella was accorded an official reception. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed welcomed him as an honor guard lined up to salute the Italian president, whose motorcade was escorted by a ceremonial cavalry procession. President Mattarella also greeted sheikhs, ministers, and senior officials present to receive him.