UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has arrived in Moscow. On the first day of his visit, he held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin over an informal dinner at the Russian leader's Novo-Ogaryovo residence near Moscow.

Upon arrival at Vnukovo International Airport, a welcome ceremony was held with a guard of honour, reports Emirates News Agency (WAM), a partner of TV BRICS. The capital city prepared for Al Nahyan's visit: book houses on Arbat Street were painted in the colours of the UAE flag. The leader of the Arab country travelled around Moscow in a motorcade accompanied by a motorbike convoy.

During the meeting, Putin said that all agreements between the UAE and the Russian Federation are being fulfilled and fully correspond to the level of strategic partnership. He also pointed out that trade turnover between the countries has tripled over the past three years.

"Mutual investments have reached US$7 billion. About 60 projects totalling US$2 billion are being implemented through our sovereign funds. Tourist exchanges are growing. We pay a lot of attention to humanitarian cooperation, cultural days are being held. Necessary attention is paid to education"

Vladimir Putin President of Russia

In addition, the Russian head of state said that on 21 October he and his Emirati counterpart will visit one of the educational institutions.

In turn, the UAE President thanked Putin for the invitation to the residence. According to him, personal communication will contribute to the solution of many issues.

"Russia and the UAE are connected by many things: culture, traditions, mentality, this is a strong bridge between the two countries. We are determined to deepen bilateral relations"

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the UAE

Putin and Al Nahyan will hold official talks on Monday, 21 October. The parties will consider the state and prospects for the development of multifaceted Russian-Emirati cooperation and topical issues on the international agenda.

Afterwards, the UAE President will take part in the BRICS summit events. The summit will be held on 22-24 October in Kazan. The event will be the centrepiece of Russia's presidency in the association in 2024.

Previously, the leaders of the Russian Federation and the United Arab Emirates met in December 2023 during Putin's visit to the UAE.

Photo: Emirates News Agency (WAM)