Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia in a lightning tour to strengthen Moscow’s influence in the Middle East despite on-going war in Ukraine.
This was his first trip to the region since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
On on December 6, 2023, Putin arrived in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates, which is currently hosting the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks.
The Russian President is visiting Gulf nations at a time when the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued is arrest warrant on charges of war crimes in Ukraine. Notably, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, having not ratified the ICC’s Rome Statute, are not obligated to apprehend the Russian president.
Russia maintains positive relations with both Gulf states, and despite Western urging for them to join sanctions against Russia, the two nations have chosen to remain neutral amid the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Putin meets Saudi Crown Prince in Riyadh
Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks at Al Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on December 6.
During the meeting, the Crown Prince highlighted the collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Russia to achieve stability in the Middle East, emphasizing successful cooperation in energy, trade, and investment.
Putin expressed gratitude for the “unprecedented level” of ties with Saudi Arabia, thanking the Crown Prince for the invitation and noting changes to their initial plans. While inviting Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Russia, Putin affirmed the strong and stable relations between the two countries in political, economic, and humanitarian aspects.
The discussions between the two leaders covered topics such as the Gaza conflict and collaboration within the OPEC+ group of oil producers, among other matters of mutual interest. The two stressed the need for OPEC+ members to commit to the group’s agreement.
“Of course for all of us it’s very important now to exchange information and assessments of what is happening in the region,” Putin said.
Saudi crown prince, known as MBS, said that the two countries “share many interests and collaborate on numerous files for the benefit of both Russia and the Kingdom, as well as the Middle East and the world,” He also mentioned the collaboration in the energy sector, agriculture, trade, investment, between the two countries over the past seven years.
Key Points from KSA-Russia joint statement
- Saudi Arabia and Russia’s bilateral trade increased at a rate of 46% in the year 2022 compared to last year.
- Both sides agreed to enhance and diversify trade, intensify communication between the private sectors to improve trade and investment opportunities and transform them into active partnerships.
- They agreed to maintain close cooperation and efforts of the OPEC+ countries in enhancing the stability of global oil markets.
- KSA and Russia agreed to expand collaboration in various fields, including oil and gas, geoscience, environment, water, agriculture, technology, tourism, sports, education, media, and health.
- The two sides expressed keenness to maximize the use of local content in energy sector projects, cooperate to stimulate innovation, apply emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence in the energy sector, and develop its ecosystem.
- They also discussed the catastrophic situation in Palestine, expressing deep concern about the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and stressed the need to stop military operations in the Palestinian territories, and the need to protect civilians in accordance with international law.
Russia’s Putin meets with UAE President in Abu Dhabi
On the same day, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Vladimir Putin of Russia held discussions on the diverse relations between the UAE and Russia.
The meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi saw Sheikh Mohamed welcoming President Putin, praising his significant contributions to the growth of UAE-Russia relations. President Putin also extended congratulations on the UAE’s 52nd Union Day.
The leaders exchanged views on various mutual concerns, focusing on developments in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. They stressed the need for international action, calling for a Gaza Strip ceasefire, civilian protection, and the secure delivery of humanitarian aid.
Today in Abu Dhabi I discussed with President Vladimir Putin the ties between our two nations, and the importance of strengthening dialogue and cooperation to ensure stability and progress. The UAE will continue to support efforts aimed at enabling global growth, prosperity and… pic.twitter.com/u7wxzvVbjv
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) December 6, 2023
The Ukraine crisis was also addressed, with Sheikh Mohamed emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to global conflict resolution through diplomacy and dialogue, aligning with its policy of promoting peace and stability.
The meeting touched on the ongoing UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Expo City Dubai. President Putin expressed hopes for constructive climate solutions and enhanced international action for the benefit of humanity.
Iranian President set to meet Putin in Moscow on December 7
Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi, are also set to conduct negotiations in the Kremlin on Thursday during Raisi’s working visit to Moscow.
As stated by the Kremlin press office, the leaders will address the ongoing bilateral cooperation agenda, particularly focusing on upcoming Russian-Iranian projects in trade and the economy, encompassing transportation and energy.
According to Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov, Putin and Raisi may delve into topics such as the Ukrainian conflict and the escalating situation in the Middle East.