EU leader calls Europe 'garden', others 'jungle': UAE condemns racist comparison

DUBAI: The UAE has called out European Union Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell for his racist statement where he equalled the world to a jungle while singling out Europe by calling it a garden.

Borrell made this controversial statement attending the inauguration of the new European Diplomatic Academy in Belgium.

Borrell reportedly described Europe as a "garden", while the rest of the world is "a jungle [that] could invade the garden."

Condemning Borrell's remark, the EAU released a statement on the Emirates News Agency that called the statement 'discriminatory and inappropriate' and "contribute to a worsening climate of intolerance and discrimination worldwide."

"Borrell's remarks are a disappointing development that comes at a time when all parties are aware of the importance of respect for other religions, cultures, and ethnic groups, as well as values such as pluralism, coexistence, and tolerance," read the WAM statement.

The foreign ministry summoned Emil Paulsen, acting head of mission at the EU delegation to the UAE, on Monday over the remarks, said WAM.

Borrell's office was also asked to provide a written explanation of the comments.