(Abu Dhabi) – The UAE will back Australia’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council this autumn, the Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed has confirmed. The confirmation was made during a visit by the Australian foreign minister, Bob Carr, to the country to sign a nuclear supply deal between the two nations.
“The relations between our two countries extend beyond trade and cultural ties as we have extended our political relations,” said Sheikh Abdullah. Mr Carr said: “I am grateful to the UAE for backing our bid. Our relations are strong as they are our biggest business partner in the Middle East with AUS$6.4 billion [Dh24.6bn] in two-way trade. “We are not America or Europe. We will bring forth our outlook and approach to world issues.”
Mr Carr hoped that Australia’s approach to the crisis in Syria would help force a peaceful resolution. “We would push for a ceasefire to be enforced and get both sides at the table to talk. We are distressed that the problem could spill over and are seeking for a fast and final resolution before the problem expands,” he said.