UAE and Türkiye: A Long-standing Relationship of Cooperation and Coordination

Abdulla Alkindi, Head of Surveys at Trends Research & Advisory

Relations between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of Türkiye have reached new heights, culminating in increased cooperation in numerous fields. This rapid and wide-ranging progress reflects the strong will on both sides to deepen our long-standing bilateral ties.

The shared ambition for closer collaboration has already yielded tangible results in areas ranging from investments ties to infrastructure, from trade and tourism to culture, sustainable energy, environment, and technology. Constructive and mutually beneficial avenues of cooperation are expanding rapidly, along with people-to-people ties, driven by regular high-level dialogue and growing institutional engagement.

In the economic sphere, recent developments have led to a remarkable surge in bilateral trade. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2023 was another landmark step heralding a new chapter of economic growth and collaboration for our nations. CEPA is not only a vehicle for boosting trade, investment, and job creation; it also establishes a genuine development partnership grounded in shared interests, long-term vision, and economic resilience.

Our partnership also reflects a deeper, shared understanding: that the future of regional security lies in inclusive multilateralism and a sustained commitment to peace, prosperity, and political stability. It is our strong belief that enhanced bilateral cooperation will not only serve our national interests but also create broader opportunities for the peoples of the Middle East and Africa.

In this context, our cooperation also extends across Africa. These efforts underscore both nations’ commitment to addressing challenges across the continent. One such area of concern, is the ongoing conflict in Sudan. In this regard, the UAE welcomed the diplomatic efforts of Türkiye to resolve the ongoing crisis there, which also represents a priority for the UAE. The UAE emphasizes that these efforts reflect Türkiye’s steadfast commitment to promoting regional peace and stability, and to contributing to the strengthening of international relations. The UAE is fully prepared to cooperate and coordinate with the Turkish efforts and all diplomatic initiatives to end the conflict in Sudan and find a comprehensive solution to the crisis.

As Sudan’s devastating war enters its third year, the humanitarian crisis has reached unimaginable proportions. Over 30 million people are in desperate need of assistance. Famine looms. Civilians are being targeted, and aid is being deliberately blocked.

The UAE has responded with urgency and resolve, providing more than US$600 million in humanitarian assistance to Sudan and neighboring countries. We have called for an immediate ceasefire, demanded unhindered humanitarian access, and urged the international community to intensify diplomatic pressure on the warring parties. The international community must unite in pushing for a political process that leads to a civilian-led government and ultimately brings lasting peace and stability for the Sudanese people.

The atrocities committed by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are indefensible. The UAE condemns all such actions, including starvation tactics, alleged use of chemical weapons, and indiscriminate attacks on civilians. The UN’s Panel of Experts on Sudan has highlighted these crimes, including airstrikes, civilian attacks, conflict-related sexual violence, and the weaponization of humanitarian aid.

The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people and supporting efforts toward a peaceful resolution to the conflict. While recent accusations by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are not supported by findings in the latest United Nations report, the UAE continues to engage transparently with the international community to address any concerns and reaffirm its dedication to humanitarian principles and regional stability.

In this spirit, the UAE upholds its approach of constructive international engagement. Its close partnership with the Republic of Türkiye reflects a shared vision of addressing global challenges through cooperation, mutual respect, and a commitment to human dignity, peace, and sustainable development. This enduring collaboration underscores the broader value of strategic partnerships in advancing regional and global stability.