UAE's Neutral Stance Allows for Peace Talks Mediation: Diplomatic Advisor

Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President, stated in a radio interview at the World Governments Summit (WGS) in Dubai that the UAE's decision to remain neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war has allowed the country to be seen as a neutral venue for hosting peace talks.

He said that despite the UAE being "heavily criticized" for taking this position, it charted its own course.

Dr. Gargash was speaking to Monocle Radio as the UAE prepares to host the second round of peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that these trilateral talks will take place in Abu Dhabi on February 4th and 5th.

UAE Position: International Law, Not Political Affiliation

Dr. Gargash explained:

"When Russia invaded Ukraine, we took a position to be on the side of 'international law'. But at the same time... not take sides and maintain our relations with both Ukraine and Russia."

He noted that at the start of the war, approximately 20,000 Russians and 16,000 Ukrainians resided in the UAE, and the UAE took measures such as extending visas for Ukrainians.

He added:

"We were heavily criticized for this because everyone wanted us to pick a side. Our argument stood firm. What we really wanted was to be useful, not just a number in the statistics."

Trump's Role and US Trust

Dr. Gargash indicated that the potential re-election of Donald Trump as US President brought about changes, and "they also had great confidence in the credibility of the UAE." He said that the Russians and Ukrainians believed that the UAE was a facilitator, and the US was pleased that this was happening.

"You have enough distance. And the most important thing is that the Americans feel that this is a place where this type of dialogue can continue. And... the second part of the negotiations is on its way."