On March 18, 2025, the UAE welcomed new UK Consul Sarah Mooney during a formal event emphasizing strong bilateral relations. Concurrently, Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Badr Abdel-Aaty held discussions with UK officials to enhance trade, marking a trade relationship nearing £5 billion. Egypt also reaffirmed its humanitarian commitment to Gaza, highlighting health initiatives amidst ongoing discussions for future collaboration.
On March 18, 2025, Rashid Abdullah Al-Qasir, Deputy Director of the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dubai, officially presented the consular credentials to Sarah Mooney, the newly appointed Consul General of the United Kingdom for Dubai and the Northern Emirates. This event, held at the Ministry’s offices, was an occasion to celebrate the longstanding and productive diplomatic relations between the UAE and the UK. Al-Qasir expressed his well-wishes for Mooney, highlighting the significance of her role in strengthening these ties.
Simultaneously, discussions between Egyptian officials and the UK took place to enhance bilateral trade and investment. Dr. Badr Abdel-Aaty, Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister, convened with Yasmin Qureshi, a UK Parliament member and Trade Envoy for Egypt. During their meeting, they addressed the strong economic relations, with Abdel-Aaty noting, “The volume of trade exchange between the two countries is close to 5 billion pounds sterling,” illustrating the vast potential for increased collaboration.
Abdel-Aaty expressed optimism regarding future cooperation and emphasized the importance of previous agreements, including the Egyptian-British partnership established in December 2020. This initiative is dedicated to expanding mutual interests and resolving pending issues, stemming from discussions held by the Egyptian-British partnership council earlier this year.
In addition, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar met with Qureshi to affirm Egypt’s commitment to providing medical assistance to Gaza. Their dialogue at the Egyptian Ministry of Health highlighted Egypt’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, particularly in treating injured individuals since the conflict began in October 2023. Abdel Ghaffar remarked, “We are committed to humanitarian principles… providing medical support… to Gaza,” underlining their extensive efforts, including immediate aid convoys.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the Ministry’s spokesperson, detailed Egypt’s strategic plan to rebuild Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. Initiatives launched since October have targeted immediate healthcare needs, including vaccinations for children, while emphasizing Egypt’s readiness with 150 ambulances at the borders to deliver urgent medical care.
The discussions also encompassed the role of international organizations, such as the World Health Organization and UNICEF, and acknowledged leveraging British expertise, especially concerning innovations in treating health conditions like cancer and diabetes. Qureshi noted, “I deeply appreciate Egypt’s efforts to support Palestine,” reflecting the respectful rapport that supports broader collaboration between the nations.
British Ambassador Gareth Bayley participated in the discussions, applauding Egypt’s crucial role and encouraging Abdel Ghaffar to join the upcoming British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA) meeting in May. He expressed optimism toward continued cooperation in areas of health, trade, and humanitarian assistance.
Through these engagements, the UAE and UK emphasize their mutual relationships that not only address current issues but also lay the foundation for enduring benefits, indicating that such diplomacy extends beyond formality to actionable commitments.
In conclusion, the recent diplomatic activities demonstrate a concerted effort by both the UAE and Egypt to enhance their relations with the UK. The appointment of Sarah Mooney as Consul General signifies the UAE’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties. Concurrently, Egypt’s discussions with UK officials illustrate a proactive approach to enhancing trade and humanitarian efforts, particularly in healthcare support for Gaza. These initiatives collectively foster a foundation for long-term cooperation and mutual benefits between these nations.
Original Source: evrimagaci.org
