Joe Biden invites UAE President to White House

Joe Biden invites UAE President to White House
July 16, 2022, 4:25 pm

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan speaks during the 10th edition of the World Future Energy Summit on January 16, 2017 in the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi. (File photo)

US President Joe Biden on Saturday (July 16) invited his Emirati counterpart, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, to visit the United States, a friendly gesture after months of strained ties over the Ukraine war and other issues, the Khaleej Times reported, citing the AFP.

"We both understand that the challenges we face today only make it a heck of a lot more important that we spend more time together. And I want to formally invite you to the States," Biden said after the two men met on the sidelines of a gathering of Arab leaders in Saudi Arabia.

Biden offered his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and the people of the UAE on the death of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and also congratulated him on his assumption of the presidency of the UAE, and extended an invitation to him to visit the United States.

Biden specified he was inviting Sheikh Mohamed to the White House - "the Oval" - and said he wanted the visit to happen "before this year is out," the report said.

The two sides reviewed a number of regional and global opportunities and challenges, which require close coordination between the UAE and the United States, as they are strategic partners, according to WAM.

HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives US President at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah - Photo. Saudi Arabia Foreign Ministry

Sheikh Mohamed's political adviser, Anwar Gargash, told journalists Friday that US-Emirati ties were "in a good place" but that there were issues "we need to resolve".

After meeting with Saudi leaders Friday, Biden is trying to use Saturday's summit as an opportunity to outline his vision for Washington's role in the region.

How Should the World Prepare for Mohammed Bin Zayed?

Saudi Arabia and USA announced Friday (July 15) to cooperate on a range of future industries including 5G networks, enhanced cybersecurity, and space exploration, in addition to public health.

Biden also said that he discussed Saudi Arabia’s defensive needs during his meetings with King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah.

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