UAE rejects Borrell’s ‘racist’ remarks, demands written apology

Abu Dhabi:

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday rejected EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell’s “racist” statement, calling it “inappropriate and discriminatory”.

in a statement Borrell’s remarks, released by the UAE Organization for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC), were characterized as “racist”, while also stressing that such remarks “increased a climate of intolerance and discrimination”.

The ministry summoned the acting head of the EU delegation to the UAE to explain and demanded a written apology from Borrell for his “hurtful” remarks.

“Borrell’s remarks are a disappointing development at a time when all parties realize the importance of respecting other religious, cultural and ethnic groups and the values ​​of diversity, coexistence and tolerance,” the ministry’s statement read. road. .

read more Biden sends powerful team to UAE aimed at repairing frayed ties

Borrell came under fire last week for comparing Europe to a “garden” while calling the rest of the world a “jungle that could invade gardens”.

“Gardeners are supposed to take care of the garden, but they don’t protect the garden by building walls. A nice little garden surrounded by high walls to keep the bush out is not the solution,” he said.

“Because the jungle is so capable of growth, the walls are never high enough. Gardeners have to go to the jungle. Europeans have to engage more with the rest of the world. Otherwise, the rest of the world will invade us,” he added.