Biden recognizes UAE as major defense partner, joining India

US President Joe Biden said Monday that he has declared the United Arab Emirates (UAE) a major defense partner – a designation awarded until now to just India – and opens the way for more cooperation in military contacts, including joint exercises and training. However, Biden and his guest, the Emir of Abu Dhabi, were meeting to discuss issues far beyond their military ties, including the war in Gaza and growing instability in the Middle East.

The two leaders called for “urgent, unhindered” humanitarian aid to Gaza and reaffirmed their commitment to a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas during their meeting. Biden acknowledged being aware of the latest developments in Israel and Lebanon after airstrikes were reported to have left at least 492 people dead.

The crisis in Sudan was also touched upon by leaders who say the crisis must be politically resolved, not militarily due to the humanitarian catastrophe that the crisis has precipitated. They also spoke of strengthening cooperation as regards space exploration, clean energy, and artificial intelligence-witnessed with the initiatives taken by the UAE that caught attention from US geopolitical rival China.

United Arab Emirates leader met privately with Vice President Kamala Harris, discussing humanitarian implications of Sudan conflict and mass displacements of millions.