ABU DHABI — US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held talks on Wednesday on the phone over bilateral ties. During the phone call, they reviewed strategic relations between the UAE and the US as well as a number of issues of common concern, including the peace accord between the UAE and Israel and its role in achieving security and stability in the region. The two sides also discussed developments in the Gulf region, along with joint cooperation to confront regional threats and work together to further maintain security and stability in the region. Blinken and Sheikh Abdullah praised mutual relations and the continuous joint cooperation between the two friendly countries in various sectors. Sheikh Abdullah congratulated Blinken on assuming office, stressing that the UAE — with the support of its leadership — looks forward to promoting partnerships and working together to face current challenges while maintaining international peace and security. — WAM