- The UAE and Belgium held their third political consultations, identifying renewable energy, hydrogen and the broader energy transition as key areas for deeper economic cooperation.
- Both sides also discussed security, humanitarian coordination and progress on the UAE–EU CEPA talks, with the next session set for Brussels in 2027.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates hosted the third round of political consultations with Belgium. The meeting marked a new phase in expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in renewable energy and the wider energy transition.
Reem Ketait, UAE Deputy Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, co-chaired the session. Theodora Gentzis, Secretary-General of Belgium’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, also co-chaired the dialogue. Senior officials from both governments joined the high-level discussions.
During the consultations, both sides reviewed the steady growth in diplomatic and economic ties. They identified renewable energy, hydrogen, advanced technologies and sustainable infrastructure as priority sectors. In addition, they examined non-oil trade expansion, private sector collaboration and investment flows to support diversification.
The delegations acknowledged the growing presence of Belgian companies in the UAE. These firms operate across logistics, ports, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and innovation. Therefore, both sides emphasised innovation-led cooperation as essential for sustainable growth.
They also addressed negotiations toward a UAE–EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Both parties expressed support for continued constructive engagement. Belgium recognised the UAE’s position as a strategic hub linking Europe, West Asia and East Africa.
Beyond trade, the talks covered judicial and consular cooperation, counterterrorism and maritime security. Furthermore, both delegations stressed the need for coordinated responses to emerging security threats.
They exchanged views on developments in the Middle East, European security and the Horn of Africa. They called for de-escalation, civilian protection and sustained diplomatic engagement. In parallel, they reviewed humanitarian efforts in the Horn of Africa and Gaza. Both countries reaffirmed their support for safe and unhindered humanitarian access.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to increase high-level visits and institutional exchanges. The fourth round of consultations will take place in Brussels in 2027. Consequently, both countries will deepen cooperation in renewable energy, hydrogen development and sustainable economic transformation.