Abu Dhabi [UAE], December 14 (ANI/WAM): The United Arab Emirates and the European Union officially launched the process of negotiating a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA).

The start of negotiations was announced by EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Suica, whose portfolio includes the European Union's relations with the Gulf countries, and Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State in the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This marks an important milestone in strengthening and institutionalising the bilateral relationship in key areas of shared priority, alongside the ongoing negotiations on an EU-UAE Free Trade Agreement.

The SPA will provide a comprehensive institutional underpinning for the full spectrum of UAE-EU cooperation, and is part of the ambitious agenda put forward by

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