President Joe Biden on Monday recognized the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a major defense partner of the United States, following consultations with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
President Joe Biden on Monday recognized the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a key defense partner of the United States after meeting with the country’s President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which they discussed pressing issues including the war in Gaza and growing instability in the Middle East.
Significance of the designation
The U.S. designation, similar to the status granted to India, will allow for enhanced military cooperation, including joint training and cooperative activities. The recognition underscores the strengthening defense ties between the two countries.
Calling for humanitarian aid and ceasefire
After the meeting, Biden and Al Nahyan stressed the need for “urgent and unhindered” delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. They expressed their shared commitment to achieving a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Regional conflict updates
“Israel and Lebanon have been briefed on the latest developments,” Biden said at the start of the meeting, referring to reports that Israeli airstrikes had killed at least 492 people.
Efforts to ease tensions
“My team is in constant contact with other teams and we’re working to de-escalate so that we can get people back to their homes safely,” Biden said.
Focus on broader issues
The joint statement also touched on the UAE’s involvement in the conflict in Sudan, stressing that “war has no military solution” and that it has led to a serious displacement crisis.
Future cooperation efforts
The two leaders underscored plans to deepen cooperation in areas such as space exploration, clean energy and artificial intelligence, as the UAE presses ahead with ambitious endeavors that have attracted the interest of China, a geopolitical rival of the United States.
Vice President’s Concerns Over Sudan Conflict
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke separately with the UAE leader and expressed “deep concern about the conflict in Sudan,” warning of millions of people being displaced and atrocities being committed against civilians. The White House noted the vice president’s focus on the humanitarian crisis.
(With input from online sources)
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