Visiting U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and a senior official of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) discussed ways to boost cooperation in military and defense fields here Thursday, Emirates News Agency reported.
During the meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also deputy supreme commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the two sides exchanged views on topics of mutual concern, as well as current international developments and efforts to enhance regional security and stability.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction with "the progressive ties of friendship and cooperation" between the two countries and keenness to enhance relations in all fields.
Gates arrived here earlier in the day on a brief visit to the country within the framework a Euro-Mideast tour, the Emirates News Agency said.
Gates, along with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, is on a regional tour, which has taken him to Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, to rally support for an American proposal to hold an international peace conference to impel the Middle East peace process.
The rare duo visit is also seen by many as the latest U.S. attempt to mobilize an Arab front to confront Iran, which has been at odds with the United States over the Iraqi issue and Iran's nuclear program.
On July 16, U.S. President George W. Bush proposed to hold an international conference later this year that will group Israel, the Palestinians and some neighboring Arab states to help resume the stalled Middle East peace talks.
Source: Xinhua
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