Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby provided the following readout:
Senior delegations from the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) met December 15-16 in Washington, D.C. for the annual Joint Military Dialogue (JMD).
The JMD is the foremost bilateral defense forum for advancing the U.S.-UAE defense partnership, including reviewing shared security interests as well as discussing a wide range of strategic objectives for the relationship and challenges in the region.
The delegations discussed a broad range of regional and defense issues, including threats from Iran; opportunities to expand cooperation as Israel enters the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Area of Responsibility; current regional security dynamics; counterterrorism; maritime security; air and missile defense; and security cooperation. Specific discussions focused on efforts to counter regional threats and U.S. global defense strategy, and DoD's approach to China as the pacing challenge.
The United States and the UAE reaffirmed their commitment to a strong bilateral defense relationship and recognized the UAE as a key partner in addressing regional challenges. Both sides agreed on the importance of the U.S.-UAE strategic partnership, as one based on shared interests and shared priorities.
The U.S. delegation was led by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin Kahl. The UAE delegation was led by Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lt. Gen Eisa al Mazrouie.
