Russia-UAE relations reach unprecedented high level- Putin

ABU DHABI, December 6 (Sputnik) – Relations between Russia and the United Arab Emirates have reached an unprecedented high level, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

“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 at a meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The president added that during the meeting, they will discuss the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, as well as he will inform about the Ukrainian crisis.

Additionally, the Russian president invited the UAE counterpart to attend the BRICS summit in Kazan next year.

The Russian president began the talks by thanking his UAE counterpart for the friendly reception in Abu Dhabi.

“I would like to thank you for such a bright and friendly reception,” Putin said.

Upon arrival, Putin was greeted by UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Putin drove around Abu Dhabi in an Aurus with local license plates, while Russian and UAE flags were placed along the president’s route from the airport, and his motorcade was greeted by cavalry and camels.

As the Russian leader arrived at the presidential palace, he was greeted by a volley of artillery fire, while the sky over Abu Dhabi was painted in the Russian tricolor by fighter jets.

On Wednesday, the Russian president is paying working visits to the UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet with their leaders and discuss bilateral, regional and international issues.