UAE and Côte d’Ivoire Seek to Boost Parliamentary Ties and Cooperation

GENEVA: Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC) of the UAE, met with Adama Bictogo, President of the National Assembly of Côte d'Ivoire, to discuss enhancing parliamentary cooperation. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland. According to Emirates News Agency, the discussion between Ghobash and Bictogo focused on strengthening the friendship and collaborative efforts between their respective legislative bodies. They emphasized the significance of coordination and collaboration at international and Islamic parliamentary union meetings. Both leaders expressed their intent to activate parliamentary friendship groups to foster closer ties between the FNC and the National Assembly of Côte d'Ivoire. The conversation also highlighted the essential role of parliamentary diplomacy in bolstering bilateral relations and opening new avenues for cooperation. The officials acknowledged the solid and growing partnership b etween the UAE and Côte d'Ivoire, particularly emphasizing the need to build on this foundation to enhance cooperation across various sectors. These include promising partnerships and opportunities in economic, trade, and cultural domains, with a special focus on vital sectors such as agriculture and industry. Furthermore, the meeting covered the UAE's contributions to infrastructure development projects in Côte d'Ivoire, such as roads, ports, and airports. The two nations' collaboration extends to the renewable energy sector, with the UAE supporting clean energy projects in the West African nation. Both officials reaffirmed the importance of parliamentary meetings and joint engagements, especially in light of regional events and challenges that require enhanced coordination and cooperation. These efforts aim to unify positions, develop a clear vision, and address crises through legitimate international legal channels to achieve regional security and stability. Several members of the UAE Parliamentary Divi sion Delegation were also present at the meeting, signifying the importance of the discussions.