The UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, has conducted an official visit to Australia aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
The visit focuses on advancing cooperation across areas of mutual interest and exploring new opportunities to further deepen ties between the UAE and Australia.
Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia, welcomed Al Hashimy to Australia and expressed his appreciation for the strategic partnership between both countries. He also reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to the UAE and its people.
During the visit, Al Hashimy met with Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense of Australia, following up on his recent visit to the UAE on 16 May 2026 and his meeting with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Discussions between the two sides focused on opportunities to strengthen economic cooperation, investment, and broader bilateral ties between the two countries.
The two sides also exchanged views on the latest regional developments, including the repercussions of Iran’s unprovoked terrorist missile attacks on regional security and stability, and their wider impact on the global economy and energy security.
Al Hashimy emphasized the need for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict that addresses the full range of Iran’s threats, including its nuclear capabilities, missiles, drones, terrorist proxies, and disruption of international maritime routes.
She reaffirmed the UAE’s resilience in the face of the Iranian terrorist aggression and highlighted the strength of the UAE–Australia strategic partnership. She expressed deep appreciation for the defense support provided by Australia, which reflects the close partnership, mutual trust, and longstanding friendship between the two countries.
Al Hashimy also commended the unity, resilience, and solidarity demonstrated across the UAE community throughout the war, noting that the country is home to more than 200 nationalities, including a vibrant Australian community of over 30,000 people.
As part of her visit, Al Hashimy met with Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism. She commended the successful signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in November 2024, which contributed to more than 35 percent growth in bilateral trade, increasing from $4.2 billion in 2024 to $5.8 billion in 2025, with the Australian business community in the UAE playing an important role in the growth of two-way trade. Her Excellency emphasized that the agreement continues to unlock new opportunities for trade and investment between the UAE and Australia.
According to the statement, “The UAE has continued to expand its network of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) and strategic economic partnerships, with 36 CEPAs signed to date, as part of its long-term strategy to diversify economic ties and strengthen international cooperation across trade, industry, and investment.”
