Martina Strong, U.S. Amabassador to the United Arab Emirates, asserts that the U.S. is unequivocally the most influential foreign policy player in the Middle East.
Strong’s statement comes approximately one year after President Joe Biden threatened “consequences” for Saudi Arabia’s decision to cut oil production against the wishes of the United States and its allies.
Despite rising oil prices, the Biden administration has remained relatively silent about recent OPEC+ output cuts.
The U.S. is currently navigating a delicate balancing act in the region as it aims to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia while also responding to China’s growing influence.
Saudi Arabia has shown signs of aligning itself with China and Russia, rekindling relations with Iran through Beijing-mediated talks and receiving an invitation to join the emerging economies’ BRICS alliance.
When asked if the U.S. continues to hold the most significant role in the Middle East, Strong confidently replied, “Absolutely. I have no doubt about it. Our leadership is unquestionable and evident in every region of the world, and the Middle East is no exception.”
Strong emphasized the close cooperation between the U.S., UAE, and other regional partners in addressing national security and economic priorities.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (L), India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C), and U.S. President Joe Biden attend a session as part of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 9, 2023.
Evelyn Hockstein | Afp | Getty Images
“When it comes to security, President Biden has outlined a positive and robust vision for our cooperation with the Middle East. This vision is based on diplomacy, deterrence, de-escalation, and, ultimately, prosperity,” Strong stated.
“For over 50 years, we have successfully worked together with the UAE, and we look forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. What sets our partnership with the UAE apart is its forward-thinking and future-oriented nature,” Strong added.
She also highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and UAE in addressing the climate crisis, with the UAE hosting the COP28 climate conference from Nov. 30 to Dec. 12.
— CNBC’s Ruxandra Iordache contributed to this report.
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