The U.S. has identified the UAE as a major defense partner
During a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the leaders reviewed ongoing initiatives and investments in advanced systems that have made the UAE one of the United States' most capable military partners. The White House said on September 23.
Biden reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the UAE's security and territorial defense. The leaders highlighted the 2017 Defense Cooperation Agreement as an important step for both countries, demonstrating their long-standing cooperation in combating terrorist groups.
They also emphasized the importance of strengthening efforts to combat regional threats, enhancing maritime security and combating piracy, expanding security cooperation, and intercepting illicit transfers of weapons and technology.
The leaders also agreed to explore investment in advanced defense systems and support regular exchanges to deepen research and development partnerships.
According to a White House statement, the trip is the first-ever visit by a UAE president to Washington. It discussed the countries' partnership in the field of not only defense, but also new technologies, environment, cybersecurity, and space exploration.
Earlier, on September 21, White House Press Secretary John Kirby announced a meeting between Biden and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for talks on issues ranging from the war in Gaza and Sudan to the environment. He said this will be the first ever visit by a UAE leader to Washington. He added that Vice President Kamala Harris will meet with the sheikh separately. For its part, Reuters noted that the United States is increasingly concerned that the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries are becoming a conduit for advanced U.S. artificial intelligence technology flowing to China, which it fears could use the technology to bolster its military.
