US and UAE Participate in Joint Military Discussions

The U.S. Department of Defense recently hosted senior delegations from the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the annual U.S.-UAE Joint Military Dialogue (JMD) at the Pentagon on April 29-30. This dialogue serves as a crucial platform for advancing the defense partnership between the two countries, focusing on shared security interests and strategic objectives.

During the two-day meeting, the delegations engaged in discussions on a wide range of regional and defense issues, including regional threats, current security dynamics, counterterrorism, maritime security, air and missile defense, and security cooperation. Of particular importance was the focus on integrated air and missile defense, as well as cooperation on emerging capabilities to address evolving security challenges in the region.

One significant outcome of the dialogue was the formalization of a bilateral technology security partnership through the signing of the Cooperative Technology Security Program (CTSP) Execution Plan. This agreement, signed by the U.S. Defense Technology Security Administration Director, Mr. Michael R. Laychak, and the UAE Assistant Undersecretary for Support and Defence Industries, Major General Mubarak Saeed Al Jabri, underscores the commitment of both countries to enhancing their technological cooperation in the defense sector.

Both the United States and the UAE reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining a strong bilateral defense relationship and recognized the UAE as a key partner in addressing regional challenges. The strategic partnership between the two countries is built on shared interests and priorities, with a mutual understanding of the importance of collaboration in ensuring regional security and stability.

Leading the UAE delegation was Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lt. Gen Eisa Al Mazrouie, while the U.S. delegation was headed by Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Amanda Dory. The presence of high-ranking officials from both countries highlights the significance of the dialogue and the commitment of both parties to strengthening their defense cooperation.

In a statement following the meeting, Lt. Gen Eisa Al Mazrouie emphasized the importance of the U.S.-UAE partnership in addressing common security challenges and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to engage in productive discussions with U.S. counterparts. Acting Under Secretary of Defense Amanda Dory echoed these sentiments, highlighting the shared commitment to enhancing defense cooperation and addressing mutual security concerns.

The annual U.S.-UAE Joint Military Dialogue serves as a vital platform for advancing the defense partnership between the two countries, fostering cooperation on a range of strategic issues, and enhancing regional security. The signing of the CTSP Execution Plan further solidifies the commitment of the United States and the UAE to working together to address shared security challenges and strengthen their defense capabilities.