UAE, Portugal sign accord on diplomatic representation

Abu Dhabi: The UAE and Portugal yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) pertaining to matters of diplomatic representation between the two countries.

Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, foreign minister, and his Portuguese counterpart Luis Amado inked the agreements.

After the signing of the agreement at the Foreign Ministry, the two officials discussed bilateral relations and ways of enhancing them in various fields. Measures to step up cooperation between the private sectors in both countries were also discussed.

They also exchanged views on the latest developments in the regional and international arenas and a number of issues of mutual interest. The Portuguese minister expressed his country's keen interest in increasing economic cooperation with GCC countries, especially the UAE.

Shaikh Abdullah and Amado signed a joint declaration regarding the opening of embassies in the capitals of both countries during Shaikh Abdullah's visit to Lisbon in May. A memorandum of understanding was also signed recognising the need to speed up an agreement on avoidance of double taxation and investment protection and another agreement for economic and commercial cooperation, in addition to steps to boost the education and health sectors.

New envoys received

Meanwhile, Shaikh Abdullah also received the credentials of five new ambassadors to the UAE.

He received the credentials of Canadian ambassador Kenneth Luis, Philippines ambassador Grace Princessa, Austrian ambassador Julius Lauritsch, Senegalese ambassador Abdul Rahman Diyoub, and Saudi ambassador Ebrahim Al Sa'ad Al Ebrahim.

Shaikh Abdullah, who warmly welcomed the new ambassadors, wished them success in their mission of boosting cooperation between the UAE and their respective countries.

He reiterated the UAE's commitment to extend bridges of cooperation with various nations. He assured the ambassadors that they would receive all the necessary assistance they need from the various state organisations and institutions to facilitate the successful discharge of their duties.