German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier hosts official dinner attended by Chancellor Friedrich Merz during high-level state visit
BERLIN — UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended an official banquet hosted by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin on Thursday, marking a key milestone in his state visit to strengthen bilateral ties and strategic cooperation.
The reception brought together senior leadership from both countries at Bellevue Palace, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and members of the accompanying ministerial delegation.
Addressing the gathering, Sheikh Mohamed commended the deep-seated friendship underpinning UAE-Germany relations, citing common objectives across economic development, innovation, and global stability.
He pointed to the historical presence of German professionals in the Emirates, noting that German specialists contributed to vital development projects even prior to the formation of the UAE federation in 1971. The UAE continues to serve as an open, stable home for more than 200 nationalities, with the German expatriate community playing an enduring role in that shared growth, Sheikh Mohamed said.
Steinmeier praised Sheikh Mohamed’s leadership in reinforcing dialogue between Europe and the Middle East, affirming Berlin’s commitment to broadening trade, clean energy initiatives, and diplomatic collaboration with Abu Dhabi.
The banquet was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President; and several German cabinet ministers and diplomats.
Biliteral discussions throughout the visit focus on expanding the comprehensive strategic partnership established between both nations, with priority agendas covering energy transition, advanced technology, logistics, and regional security.
