Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Meets Obama

US president Barack Obama discussed conditions in Iran and Syria as well as global energy prices with Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahayan, Abu Dhabi crown prince and deputy supreme commander of the UAE Armed Forces on Wednesday, the White House said.

They agreed there was an urgent need to stop the bloodshed in Syria and for political transition there, and also said Iran should meet its international obligations related to its nuclear program, according to a statement issued after their meeting.

“Noting the profound changes taking place in other countries in the Middle East, they called on governments and citizens alike to avoid violence, advance tolerance, and protect human rights – particularly the rights of women,” the White House said.

The crown prince also outlined the United Arab Emirates’ initiatives “to reduce energy price volatility and ensure reliable supplies to world markets at prices that support global economic growth,” the statement read.

“The president and crown prince discussed the importance of protecting critical shipping lanes against threats of aggression, terrorism, and piracy,” it said.