ABU DHABI — Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also the deputy supreme commander of the United Arab Emirates armed forces, held telephone talks on Sunday with French President, Emmanuel Macron.

During the talks, both leaders emphasized the strong ties between the two friendly countries. They discussed a number of regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed his condemnation of the recent terrorist attacks in France. He offered his condolences to the French president for the victims and their families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Abu Dhabi crown prince stressed that these violent acts are inconsistent with the teachings and principles of all monotheistic religions that call for peace, tolerance, and love and emphasized the sanctity of human life.

He reiterated his rejection of hate speech, emphasizing its negative and harmful effects on relations between people of different nationalities and faiths, and that it serves only those with extremist ideas.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed categorically rejected any justification employed to excuse these criminal acts of violence and terrorism.

He emphasized that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) represents solemn sacredness for all Muslims, and under no circumstances should the Prophet be linked to violence or politicization.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed noted that interaction among people should involve dialogue of mutual respect among cultures, emphasizing the common historical and civilization links between France and the Arab world. He expressed his appreciation for the cultural diversity of France and its embrace of its Muslim citizens whose rights, beliefs, and culture thrive under French law and institutions.

Abu Dhabi crown prince emphasized that the UAE, as an Arab and Muslim country, is proud of its values of coexistence, tolerance and cooperation with the global community of nations.

The call covered developments in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean, emphasizing regional security and stability and the non-interference in internal affairs of sovereign states.

The two leaders expressed their support for any moves or initiatives that would contribute to reaching political settlements to the conflicts in the region.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and President Macron reviewed the latest developments to combat COVID-19 in the two countries and the world, noting the significance of enhancing international cooperation in the fight to contain its repercussions and impact. — WAM