President Sheikh Mohamed and Syria's Al Shara discuss regional security in call

President Sheikh Mohamed of the United Arab Emirates and Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara discussed the need for increased security and stability in the region during a phone conversation on Thursday. They emphasized the importance of serving the interests of all people in the area. The discussions took place amid heightened tension in the Gulf following drone and missile attacks on King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia, resulting in three deaths and 36 injuries.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the strikes, sparking concerns about the conflict's impact on air travel. In addition to addressing security, the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations and explored ways to further enhance cooperation. They have already made significant strides in this regard, including a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi during Syrian President Al Shara's working visit to the UAE.

The visit included a UAE economic delegation's trip to Syria, which both sides saw as a crucial step towards establishing frameworks for economic recovery. The UAE's Eagle Hills is currently working on two major projects in Syria, with the aim of creating over 40,000 jobs through residential and tourism developments. The Central Bank of the UAE recently agreed to deepen financial and technological cooperation with Syria and Morocco, setting the stage for technical expertise in payment systems, monetary policy, cash management, and financial technology.

Additionally, Latakia Racecourse in Syria will host the UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses on Friday, as part of the UAE-Syrian Festival.