UAE, US discuss strategic ties, regional crises in Washington meeting

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates’ deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs, met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington to discuss strategic relations between the two countries, according to state news agency WAM.

The talks took place during Sheikh Abdullah’s visit to the U.S. capital and focused on strengthening bilateral ties to support mutual interests.

Both sides reviewed prospects for expanding cooperation across sectors including the economy, trade, artificial intelligence and advanced technology.

Sheikh Abdullah affirmed what he described as the depth and diversity of the strategic partnership between the UAE and the United States. The meeting also covered broader regional developments, particularly the situation in the Middle East.

The two officials discussed enhancing joint cooperation within the framework of the Board of Peace to support international efforts aimed at achieving regional security and stability.

They underscored the importance of the Board of Peace as an international platform for promoting multilateral coordination and advancing peaceful solutions aligned with the aspirations of the region’s peoples for stability, development and prosperity.

The diplomats also addressed several issues of mutual concern, including the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

They stressed the urgent need to intensify international efforts to address the repercussions of the crisis and ensure sustained and adequate delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians.

In addition, Sheikh Abdullah discussed developments in Sudan’s civil war and ways to bolster regional and international efforts to secure an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, support humanitarian relief for the Sudanese people, and facilitate the entry of aid to civilians.

He said the UAE’s joining the Board of Peace reflects its commitment to supporting international initiatives that enhance prospects for peace and reinforce regional stability.

Sheikh Abdullah also emphasized the importance of implementing all phases of the Gaza peace plan announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, describing it as a comprehensive framework for reaching a sustainable settlement.

Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE ambassador to the United States, attended the meeting.