In a bid to mend ties following a period of heightened regional tensions, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced that Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are eager to “turn the page” and build a better relationship. This statement came a day after his meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Pezeshkian described the discussions as constructive, with both parties agreeing to focus on future cooperation.
This meeting signifies the highest-level contact between the two nations since the escalation of conflict in West Asia. Relations had previously soured as regional tensions led the UAE to suspend trade and financial exchanges with Iran. The conversation between Pezeshkian and the Crown Prince covered regional and international developments, emphasizing the need for de-escalation, stability, and efforts to promote peace and development.
Shortly before this dialogue, Iran, the UAE, and other BRICS members issued a joint statement advocating for restraint in the ongoing conflict. The UAE continues to hold significant economic importance for Iran, with Dubai serving as a crucial commercial hub for the Iranian community and facilitating economic activities despite international sanctions.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed no concern over a proposed meeting involving Iran and Gulf states regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This meeting is set to take place in Oman amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran.