Dubai, UAE – Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President, affirmed that the UAE will remain a fundamental and pivotal force in the region. He also noted that the UAE adopts ambitious policies based on promoting peace and confronting extremism in all its forms. He emphasized that credibility and leadership are the true assets of Emirati foreign policy.
Countering extremism and promoting peace
During a panel discussion at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Gargash said, “We will pursue ambitious policies with a focus on diversification, and we will continue to advocate for peace through the Abraham Accords.” He also affirmed the UAE’s commitment to combating extremism, specifically mentioning the Muslim Brotherhood and other extremist organizations.
“Noise” versus reality and a response to hostile narratives
In a firm response to the media campaigns targeting the UAE’s role, Gargash called for a distinction to be made between “noise and reality.” He asserted that the narrative directed against the UAE is a mixture of excuses and attempts to diminish the country’s economic progress and regional role. Gargash revealed that the UAE had detected automated systems (bots) behind the attacks on social media platforms. He further explained that approximately 43,000 tweets were being monitored daily regarding the UAE’s role in Sudan. This number then suddenly dropped to 3,000 once the priorities on the ground in Yemen shifted, confirming that these were organized and fabricated campaigns.
Gargash emphasized that it is natural for a country with an ambitious program to receive criticism. He stressed, “We will not back down, and we will confront these waves.”
The Palestinian issue and Trump’s plan
The diplomatic advisor then turned to the situation in Gaza, emphasizing that the UAE is the primary donor of humanitarian aid to the Strip, providing approximately 45% of all international assistance. Regarding the political track, Gargash explained the UAE’s vision for a solution, stating that the Palestinian issue must be resolved through diplomacy, not confrontation. He also stressed the necessity of coordination with the Palestinians, Israelis, Egyptians, and Jordanians. Gargash described the US leadership as “essential” for moving to the second phase of President Trump’s plan, noting that this is aimed at achieving a better and more stable regional landscape.
