Abu Dhabi, 5 February 2026 – Following the meeting between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Burundi and the United Arab Emirates, H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi, was received by H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, at Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi.
This high-level meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations and cooperation between the Burundi and the United Arab Emirates. It followed ministerial-level discussions and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to maintaining regular political dialogue and advancing their bilateral partnership.
Review of Bilateral Relations
During their talks, the two Heads of State reviewed the current state of cooperation between their respective countries, assessing progress achieved in existing areas of collaboration. The discussions focused on the evaluation of established cooperation frameworks, as well as on identifying areas where further progress could be achieved in the medium and long term.
Both leaders underlined the importance of a partnership based on mutual respect, dialogue and the pursuit of shared interests, particularly in the context of evolving regional and global economic and geopolitical challenges.
Prospects for Expanding Cooperation
The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation into additional areas of mutual interest. By mutual agreement, the two leaders expressed their intention to further strengthen cooperation and to broaden it to new sectors aligned with the development priorities of both countries.
Among the sectors discussed were economic development, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, as well as capacity-building and training. These areas were identified as key drivers for sustainable development and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Political Dialogue and International Cooperation
The two Presidents also exchanged views on issues of common interest related to international cooperation and diplomatic engagement. The discussions emphasized the importance of dialogue between states and the promotion of peaceful international relations based on international law and diplomatic consultation.
In this context, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of national sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful resolution of disputes, which constitute the foundations of their bilateral relations and broader diplomatic engagement.
A Partnership Set to Continue
At the conclusion of the meeting, the two Heads of State expressed their determination to maintain and intensify exchanges at various levels, with a view to translating the agreed orientations into concrete initiatives and practical cooperation projects.
This presidential meeting marks an additional step in the consolidation of relations between Burundi and the United Arab Emirates and reflects the shared willingness of both countries to further develop a durable partnership based on dialogue, cooperation and mutual trust.
Isaac Hammouch
