The spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry has reiterated that Egypt enjoys a close relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), one that is based on mutual respect and common interests.
This statement comes in response to remarks made by Essam el-Erian, deputy head of the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party, during Monday's session at the Shura Council, in which he requested that the Foreign Ministry complain to UAE officials about what he called the “unacceptable” treatment of Egyptians living there.
“People's patience has run out concerning the way they treat Egyptians in a disgraceful and illegal manner that violates human rights and traditional Arab ethics,” Erian had said.
The Freedom and Justice Party said in a statement that Erian's comments did not reflect its stance on the issue.
The UAE has been wary of revolts in neighboring Arab states that have overthrown several autocratic leaders and the subsequent rise of Islamist governments in those countries.
Relations with Egypt have been tense since last year’s election of President Mohamed Morsy, a member of the Muslim Brotherhood.
Dubai police chief Dahi Khalfan has occasionally issued scathing criticism of Brotherhood officials in the media.
The UAE announced earlier this year that it had arrested several Egyptians on charges of being affiliated with the Brotherhood and attempting to overthrow the regime.
