Reuters Ahmed Jadallah
The UAE announced, in response to reports about the administration of the new US President, Joe Biden, freezing the sale of “F-35” fighters, that it “expected the new team in the White House to review American policies.”
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The Emirati Ambassador to Washington, Yousef Al-Otaiba, said in a statement published on Wednesday evening via the diplomatic mission’s Twitter account: “We welcome the joint efforts aimed at reducing tensions and resuming dialogue in the region. The UAE will cooperate closely with the Biden administration on a comprehensive approach towards Achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. “
Al-Otaiba added, “As during the periods prior to the transfer of power, the United Arab Emirates expected a review of current policies by the new administration. Especially since the F-35 file is much larger than the sale of military equipment to a partner.”
He continued, “Like the United States, (this agreement) allows the United Arab Emirates to maintain a strong deterrent factor for any aggression. It also helps, in parallel with the new security dialogue and cooperation, to reassure regional partners.”
Al-Otaiba pointed out that “this matter also enables the United Arab Emirates to bear more of the burden of collective security in the region, and free up American assets to focus on facing other global challenges, which represents a long-term priority for both US parties.”
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“The United Arab Emirates has always fought alongside the United States. We have learned through hundreds of joint missions and participation in the efforts of 6 US-led coalitions that the key to military coordination is operational proportionality. With the same equipment and training, US and Emirati forces will be more effective in joint action. Anywhere and timing that requires it. “
US officials announced, earlier on Wednesday, that the Biden administration had temporarily froze some arms sales to the UAE and Saudi Arabia to review these agreements.
They stated that these measures include suspending the sale of “F-35” fighters to the Emirates as part of a deal concluded in the last days of the term of former US President Donald Trump.
Source: RT
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