UAE, Australia hold 10th session of joint consular committee

Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties

The meeting coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations and followed recent high-level visits, including His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s official trip to Australia in November 2024 and the visit of Australia’s Governor-General to the UAE.

High-level delegations lead discussions

The UAE delegation was headed by Faisal Eissa Lutfi, Assistant Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On the Australian side, the delegation was led by Ciara Spencer, First Assistant Secretary of the Security Division at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

At the opening of the session, Lutfi conveyed greetings and well wishes from His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, expressing hopes for a productive and successful dialogue.

Focus on enhancing consular services

The session addressed a range of topics of mutual interest, including the exchange of expertise in consular services and collaborative efforts to improve and develop joint consular procedures. Both sides emphasized the importance of providing efficient, citizen-focused services.

Strengthening strategic partnership

Officials from various UAE and Australian government bodies participated in the meeting, including representatives from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The session concluded with both nations reaffirming their dedication to advancing strategic cooperation in consular affairs and strengthening the broader partnership between the UAE and Australia.