The United Arab Emirates – UAE and the African Union Commission – AUC have reaffirmed their commitment to closer strategic cooperation following high-level talks in Addis Ababa. The meeting brought together African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and UAE Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan.
The talks reviewed progress since the first round of political consultations held in Abu Dhabi in September 2025. Those consultations were anchored in a 2019 Memorandum of Understanding that set the framework for cooperation between the two sides. Both leaders agreed that engagement had gained momentum and should now translate into deeper, more practical collaboration.
Discussions focused on Africa’s long-term development agenda, Agenda 2063. Particular attention was given to the goal of “Silencing the Guns by 2030” and the African Continental Free Trade Area. The two sides emphasized that peace, security, and trade are closely linked. Without stability, economic integration stalls. Without growth and jobs, peace is harder to sustain.
Peace, Trade, and Tech Collaboration
The leaders also welcomed the UAE’s US$1 billion “AI for Development” initiative. It was launched at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025. They noted that digital tools and emerging technologies could help accelerate Africa’s development. Only if aligned with local priorities and capacity building.
Regional security featured prominently. The Horn of Africa was discussed. Both sides noting its importance to wider regional stability, including in the Arabian Gulf. UAE & AUC highlighted maritime security as critical for trade flows and economic resilience.
On Sudan, both parties called for an immediate humanitarian truce, a permanent ceasefire, and unrestricted aid access. They stressed accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and reiterated support for a civilian-led government and Sudan’s territorial integrity. Support for Somalia’s sovereignty and stability was also reaffirmed.
The talks highlighted the African Union’s 2026 theme on water and sanitation and the UN Water Conference. It will be co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal. Both sides agreed this offers a chance to push practical solutions for Africa’s water challenges, reinforcing their broader commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development.
