Defense and security cooperation between Bénin and the United Arab Emirates is entering a more active phase.

The newly appointed Emirati Ambassador, Hazza Mohamed Alqahtani, recently held talks with Gildas Agonkan, the Minister Delegate to the President of the Republic in charge of National Defense. The meeting served to outline his diplomatic mission and evaluate future bilateral opportunities.

During the discussions, the diplomat praised the strength of the existing military alliance and reiterated the commitment of the United Arab Emirates to supporting security initiatives across Bénin.

Expectations for a modernized military force in Bénin

Minister Gildas Agonkan welcomed the engagement, emphasizing that this strategic alliance fits perfectly with the vision of President Romuald Wadagni’s administration to establish a highly professional, adaptable, and technologically advanced military capable of addressing contemporary threats.

While reaffirming Bénin’s support for the United Arab Emirates, given its significant geostrategic influence in the Gulf region, the minister expressed a strong desire to draw upon Abu Dhabi’s specialized defense capabilities.

This collaboration is expected to focus primarily on advanced training, defense procurement, and technological integration.

Both nations subsequently pledged to sustain their collaborative efforts to foster regional stability, peace, and mutual progress.