UAE, US issue joint statement; deepen cooperation, ties

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and US President Joseph R Biden Junior reaffirmed the countries’ enduring strategic and defence partnership during the UAE’s President’s state visit to the US.

The meeting, held on September 23 at the White House, is the first-ever state visit by a UAE president to the US. It also marks the fourth bilateral meeting between the leaders since the Biden-Harris Administration.

The leaders discussed global and regional matters, pledging to pursue new opportunities to strengthen their economic and defence partnership, promote peace and stability in the Middle East, and deliver global leadership on issues of shared importance.

The leaders issued a joint statement to mark the visit and discussion, covering diverse areas of cooperation.

UAE-US: Key areas of cooperation

Dynamic strategic partnership: The leaders emphasised the strength of the U.S.-UAE partnership, reflected in bilateral trade exceeding $40bn annually and US exports to the UAE reaching $26bn.

They charted an ambitious course for deepening cooperation in advanced technologies and clean energy.

Advanced technology: The leaders welcomed the partnership between Microsoft and the UAE’s Group 42 (G42), which aims to accelerate AI development and digital transformation in the region.

They also endorsed the Common Principles for Cooperation on AI, which will guide their collaboration in this area.

Critical infrastructure and supply chain resiliencies: The leaders reviewed progress on the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI) and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which aim to enhance connectivity and economic integration.

They also discussed the importance of strategic investments in hard infrastructure and critical minerals supply chains.

Clean energy transition: The leaders underscored the importance of US-UAE leadership in addressing the climate crisis. They affirmed their commitment to protecting the planet and securing a sustainable future through initiatives like the Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE).

Space exploration: As founding members of the Artemis Accords, the leaders reaffirmed their cooperation in space exploration and human exploration of the Moon.

Security and defence: The leaders praised the strong security and defence partnership between the US and the UAE.

President Biden affirmed the US’s commitment to the UAE’s security and territorial defence. They also discussed deepening cooperation in defence systems and military-to-military collaboration.

Regional issues: The leaders discussed the conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and the Middle East, emphasizing the need for peaceful solutions, humanitarian assistance, and de-escalation.

Read: UAE President reaffirms ‘unwavering commitment’ to US partnership