UAE President + Australian Defense Minister mull more defense cooperation. PLUS: Austrian chancellor phones MbZ

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles to explore avenues of collaboration and enhance bilateral relations, particularly in defense, military and policing sectors, Wam writes.

The president also received a phone call from Austrian chancellor Karl Nehammer, where they discussed strengthening relations, as well as the importance of maintaining peace in the region and providing aid to Gaza, Wam reported separately.

MEANWHILE- Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a phone call with his Pakistani counterpart, Muhammad Ishaq Dar, to discuss prospects for cooperation across economic, trade, and development sectors, Wam reports.