Relations between Russia and the United Arab Emirates have reached an unprecedented high level, Russian leader Vladimir Putin said during a meeting with his UAE counterpart Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.
"Today, thanks to your position, our relations have reached an unprecedented high level. You and I are in constant contact, and our colleagues constantly work with each other. And indeed, the United Arab Emirates is Russia’s main trading partner in the Arab world," Putin said.
Putin added that the UAE makes a great contribution to international affairs, and the leaders plan to discuss the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the acute issues in the region and the latest developments in the Ukrainian crisis. Moreover, the Russian president highlighted the significant development of the economic and industrial cooperation between his nation and the UAE.
Additionally, the Russian president invited the UAE counterpart to attend the BRICS summit in Kazan next year.
Bin Zayed, in turn, noted that Russia-UAE relations have a historical character and are constantly developing in all areas, adding that his country cooperates with Russia on various international platforms. The leader also underlined that the UAE is among of Russia's largest trade partners.
Putin is on an official visit in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, which will be followed by the visit to Saudi Arabia the same day, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. He added that on Thursday, the president plans to receive his Iranian counterpart in Moscow.