There are ties that run deep, where good neighbours become good friends, and good friends become great brothers — and such are the ties between the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and his delegation of high-ranking and senior officials now on an official visit here to the UAE, the close, warm and brotherly ties between the two neighbours are evident. Together, the UAE and Saudi Arabia share common interests and pursue common goals, all on ensuring that the relationship thrives, and that the safety and security of all of the nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council is paramount. Together, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, along with Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar stand united, celebrating the commonalities and ties that bind. They share common goals, a vision of progress, outward looking perspectives that ensure that GCC interests are protected. In the words of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “The UAE-Saudi Arabian relations are deep-rooted and surpass traditional diplomatic ties. They are like one body.”
Indeed, the two nations share the same vision, careful to ensure that the safety of all is secured. And together, the UAE and Saudi Arabia stand in tandem, aware of the forces of intolerance and extremism that threaten the region. Whether it be Al Qaida or Daesh — or any other threat that undermines peace and security, together the UAE and Saudi Arabia communicate, cooperate, condemn and act.
With the overthrow of the legitimate government of President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi of Yemen by Al Houthi militia, the friendship and strong ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia cemented international action. With Saudi Arabia leading an international coalition of Arab nations, the UAE answered the call, and is proud to be a partner in this righteous cause. In the words of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, “The Arab history will always remember the historic stances of King Salman and his crucial decisions in facing up to foreign intervention in the internal affairs of Arab countries. It will also remember his efforts in creating a united Arab-Gulf front in response to these intervention.”
This official visit cements the ties that unite, and such occasions provide an opportunity for all to express and appreciate the friendship. It’s a perfect time to appreciate what the two nations share.
