UAE News
Response to US Department of State on suspension of BlackBerry services in the UAE
UAE Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba statement regarding the US Department of State’s comments on the suspension of certain BlackBerry services in the UAE.
See Full Story.UAE Embassy connects on Facebook and Twitter
Social media platforms support US outreach.
See Full Story.Children's National Medical Center explores ways to advance pediatric care in the UAE
Doctors from the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation at Children's National meet with counterparts in Abu Dhabi to explore more opportunities for collaboration.
See Full Story.UAE students train at NASA
First ever international students begin scientific training at NASA research center.
See Full Story.UAE Embassy & Manchester City bring soccer pitch to Harlem school
The team, in New York for pre-season matches, partnered with the UAE Embassy to support the donation of a soccer pitch to Lexington Academy.
See Full Story.Mitchell consults Abu Dhabi Crown Prince on peace process
The US' Special Envoy for Middle East Peace met with HH General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss expediting peace talks between the Israelis and Palestinians. See Full Story.
HE Sultan Al Jaber participates in DoE clean energy meeting
In Washington, top energy officials from 24 countries announced a series of collaborative initiatives that will cut carbon emissions and create jobs. The UAE's Special Envoy for Energy & Climate Change commented, "...investing in energy efficiency...is simply our future." See Full Story.
UAE leading global anti-piracy efforts
The UAE is funding a new naval base in the Seychelles Islands that will curb Somali piracy and boost maritime security.
See Full Story.UAE women win coveted Fulbright scholarships
Three Emirati students will study psychology, business, and art history in Illinois and New York State. The UAE joined the Fulbright program in 2006. See Full Story.
Desert Falcons showcases UAE-US military cooperation
The documentary, premiered to a group of senior military and government officials in Washington, highlights UAE pilots' participation in Red Flag, the US Air Force's most challenging aerial combat exercise. See Full Story.
UAE supports efforts to combat nuclear terrorism
Co-chaired by the US and Russia, The Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT) meeting in Abu Dhabi identified nuclear detection and forensics as target areas for cooperation in the coming year.
See Full Story.UAE promotes international cooperation on climate change
Representatives from the US and other leading economies met in Abu Dhabi to coordinate a global climate change policy after the Copenhagen Accord. The only OPEC member to participate, the UAE is investing in renewable energy technologies to create a sustainable future.
See Full Story.Report details UAE's foreign aid contributions
UAE government bodies, the Red Crescent Authority, humanitarian and charitable foundations, and NGOs gave nearly $2.45bn in 2009 to humanitarian and development projects in 92 countries. Full Report.
See Full Story.UAE Foreign Trade Minister visits Washington, highlights resilient UAE economy
HE Sheikha Lubna met with Secretary of State Clinton to discuss the expanding bilateral trade partnership. At the US-UAE Business Council, she stressed the UAE's support for the latest UN sanctions against Iran, assuring the UAE economy will remain strong.
See Full Story.UAE and US officials discuss strengthening bilateral trade relations
The UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, in a meeting with Assistant Secretary of Commerce Kumar, encouraged US companies to take advantage of opportunities in the UAE, the largest market for US goods in the Middle East. See Full Story.
DHS Secretary Napolitano consults with UAE counterparts on increased aviation security
The UAE convened a conference of government officials to discuss ways to combat the threat of global terrorism by enhancing aviation security measures. Secretary Napolitano heralded the meetings as a testament to the UAE and US' "...shared commitment...to better protect the traveling public." See Full Story.
Global computer chip industry finds foothold in Abu Dhabi
The UAE’s Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC) announced plans for a state-of-the-art manufacturing cluster that will include a facility to train a local workforce. ATIC has pledged continued investment in Globalfoundries, a joint venture with the US’ Advanced Micro Devices, behind the construction of an advanced chip factory in upstate New York. See Full Story.
Under Secretary Tauscher highlights strong US-UAE security relationship
At the US-UAE Business Council, the Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security praised the resilient US-UAE security relationship, highlighting joint military cooperation and the bilateral Peaceful Nuclear Energy Agreement. She also commended UAE efforts to enforce export control laws and prevent the shipment of dangerous goods.
See Full Story.Study affirms strength of UAE-US economic relationship
US-UAE Business Council report says bilateral trade remains robust despite economic recession; cites UAE’s rapid economic diversification as a source. See Full Story.
Abu Dhabi's Masdar project highlighted by Smithsonian
The carbon-neutral, zero-waste city is featured in the museum’s green living and design exhibition. See Full Story.
Financial reform progresses in Dubai
The government is moving forward on a comprehensive framework to enhance regulation of borrowing and debt management. See Full Story.
UAE lends assistance to Gulf of Mexico oil spill clean-up
The UAE, joining a world-wide response, has sent resources to the Gulf of Mexico to assist in the clean-up of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
See Full Story.Washington DC children’s hospital honors Abu Dhabi
The Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC recognized Abu Dhabi for a grant provided to establish Sheikh Zayed Institute for Innovative Pediatric Surgeries at its annual gala event.
See Full Story.UAE Ambassador honored by National US-Arab Chamber of Commerce
UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba was named “Ambassador of the Year” by the organization. He was honored at a luncheon with more than 150 business and government leaders.
See Full Story.UAE Minister of Justice meets with Attorney General Holder
In New York, the officials discussed expanding bilateral cooperation through training programs for UAE legal practitioners. See Full Story.
President Khalifa voices support for Mideast peace process
In a meeting with Palestinian President Abbas, he urged the international community to take action to achieve "a just and comprehensive peace." See Full Story.
Duke University professor to head Abu Dhabi university
The former Dean of Education at Duke’s engineering school will assume leadership of Khalifa University of Science, Research and Technology. See Full Story.
DoE and Abu Dhabi's Masdar sign MoU on clean energy
The agreement will promote bilateral collaboration on sustainable energy and help guide UAE investments in the United States. See Full Story.
Bill Clinton lauds UAE policies, vision
On ABC News, the former President lauded UAE steps to protect expatriate workers. He also highlighted progressive policies on citizen participation in government and clean energy. See Full Story.
UAE firm to support US forces in the Gulf
Dubai's ANHAM will provide food and support services to troops serving in Kuwait, Iraq, and Jordan.
See Full Story.Renewable energy drives push for diversified economy
The New York Times’ Greenwire blog highlights how the UAE is “investing beyond oil.”
See Full Story.UAE philanthropist honored by Arab American Institute
Juma Al Majid's research center provides training in restoration techniques for the preservation of cultural heritage in the UAE and broader region. See Full Story.
HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan meets with US President and Vice President
While in Washington, DC for the Nuclear Security Summit, HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, spoke with President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden about regional issues and bilateral cooperation on economic, diplomatic and security matters.
See Full Story.Bill Clinton cites UAE as positive example
While announcing a partnership with Dubai-based GEMS Education, the former US President described the UAE as a country that preserves its heritage, values and faith yet welcomes people from all over the world. See Full Story.
Cartoon Network partners with Abu Dhabi's twofour54
Aiming to increase animated Arabic content, the Cartoon Network will open production studios and a training academy in Abu Dhabi. See Full Story.
UAE firmly committed to nonproliferation efforts
The UAE is member of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and supports a WMD-free Middle East. See Full Story.
Colorado businesses seek to expand UAE exports
UAE trade delegates met with the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce to facilitate increased exports to the UAE, which stand at 3% of the state total. See Full Story.
NRC official highlights women’s role in engineering
Khalifa University hosted a US official from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to foster greater female engagement in science & engineering. See Full Story.
UAE celebrates World Autism Day
In concert with nations across the globe, the UAE held events in support of the autistic community and their family members. See Full Story.
Sheikh Ahmed laid to rest in Abu Dhabi
President Khalifa’s younger brother served as Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, and was an active humanitarian and philanthropist. See Full Story.
Treasury official consults on Iranian sanctions
Treasury’s key official on terrorism and financial intelligence met with UAE officials to discuss a coordinated approach to financial and trade regulation. See Full Story.
US Defense Secretary signals enhanced cooperation on Iran
Secretary Gates met with UAE officials on a coordinated regional security strategy. The UAE has indicated support for multilateral sanctions against Iran, if diplomacy fails.
See Full Story.UAE officials meet with US railway experts
The UAE plans to build a national freight railway system and toured US facilities to assess best practices. See Full Story.
Environmental "Heroes of the UAE"
A new public education campaign, launched with the World Wildlife Foundation, looks for environmental heroes to save energy and water. See Full Story.
Major partnerships announced at Abu Dhabi Media Summit
The conference opened with the announcement of a new partnership between Fox International Channels and Abu Dhabi's twofour54. Google, News Corp, and Warner Brothers are in the capital to learn about growth opportunities. Follow coverage in the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, The National, and on Youtube.
See Full Story.Gulf cooperation key to success of Iranian sanctions
In an op-ed, Pulitzer prize-winning columnist David Ignatius discusses the vital role of the UAE and other Gulf nations in creating a multilateral sanctions regime.
See Full Story.UAE: Women's rights a priority
An editorial in the Dallas Morning News highlights the significant status of women in the Emirates, citing "a track record where words are being matched by extraordinary deeds."
See Full Story.IISS: UAE leads region in peaceful nuclear energy
Study highlights the UAE’s program as a positive model in which safety, transparency, and nonproliferation are paramount. See Full Story.
UAE supports Copenhagen climate accord
The UAE is the first OPEC member to pledge support for the Copenhagen Accord, urging "equitable and coordinated international action to mitigate climate change." See Full Story.
NASA astronauts meet with UAE students
US astronauts brief Dubai students to build interest in science education and encourage UAE students to attend Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.
See Full Story.UAE Foreign Minister meets with Secretary of State Clinton
The two reaffirmed the strong US-UAE partnership in a joint statement. Visiting Washington, the Minister's meetings have included National Security Advisor General James Jones and key Congressional representatives.
See Full Story.US Department of Energy signs cooperation agreement with UAE
The agreement will increase bilateral cooperation and support development of the UAE's peaceful nuclear energy program. In Abu Dhabi, DoE Secretary Chu welcomed the collaboration "to reduce carbon pollution through the development of clean sources of energy." See Full Story.
Hans Blix heads UAE nuclear advisory board
The former IAEA Director will chair a board designed to enhance the transparency of the UAE's peaceful nuclear energy program. See Full Story.
HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi hosts University of Washington delegation
The Minister of Foreign Trade highlighted areas of significant economic growth, such as the UAE's non-oil foreign trade, which reached US$215 billion in 2008. See Full Story.
Ambassador Al Otaiba highlights deep ties with Texas in speech
The state is the second-largest US exporter to the UAE, and boasts a wide array of commercial, defense, and health partnerships. See Full Story.
UAE largest Arab exporter in 2009
With US$201.9 billion exported in goods and services, the UAE surpassed Saudi Arabia to become the largest Arab exporter. The UAE remains the largest Arab importer to the US. See Full Story.
US-UAE Business Council leads trade delegation to the UAE
The group, representing about 40 US companies, will explore subcontracting opportunities in the UAE’s peaceful nuclear energy program. See Full Story.
UAE trade officials visit Seattle
Washington state is the biggest exporter to the UAE.
See Full Story.UAE's first female film producer breaks boundaries
On CNN, Nayla Al Khaja discusses her work tackling sensitive cultural issues. See Full Story.
Abu Dhabi supports fight against malaria
The government contributes $25 million to the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, to help meet UNDP Millennium Development Goals. See Full Story.
John Kerry: Cooperation on Yemen critical
In an op-ed, US Senator Kerry emphasizes the US commitment to Yemen’s stability and economic development, and the importance of cooperation with Gulf partners for success. See Full Story.
Mohamed bin Zayed scholars visit NYU
Emirati students met with elected officials and participated in seminars in New York and Washington, DC as part of an exchange program facilitated by NYU-Abu Dhabi. See Full Story.
UAE ongoing support for Haitian relief efforts
The UAE has already contributed substantial humanitarian aid to earthquake victims, and continues to look for additional ways to assist international relief efforts.
See Full Story.Key role of UAE forces in Afghanistan highlighted
A British military official praised the UAE’s military cooperation with coalition forces.
See Full Story.Thousands of green energy innovators in Abu Dhabi
Last week, Abu Dhabi hosted the largest green energy conference in the world.
See Full Story.New interactive map details UAE-US trade
Key investment and export statistics now available by state.
See Full Story.UAE counter-terrorism efforts commended
US counter-terrorism experts say the UAE’s policies may have shielded the country from attacks by extremist groups.
See Full Story.UN could move more operations to Dubai
The UN is considering establishing Dubai as a regional logistical hub for the agency’s regional operations.
See Full Story.Ambassador Al Otaiba shaves head to support children with cancer
His efforts through Children's National Medical Center's "Be Brave and Shave" campaign raised over half a million dollars to support cancer programs. See Full Story.
World's tallest building opens in Dubai
The multipurpose tower, designed by Skidmore Owens Merrill in Chicago, takes the crown for the world's tallest building at 2, 717 feet.
See Full Story.Westinghouse to share UAE nuclear energy contract
As a member of the winning consortium, Pennsylvania-based Westinghouse will help implement the UAE's nuclear energy program.
See Full Story.Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation established
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation will implement the UAE's peaceful nuclear energy program and meet commitments for safety, security, and nonproliferation.
See Full Story.First Emirati woman elected to Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Fatima Al Jaber, CEO of Al Jaber Group, will occupy a seat on the Chamber's Board of Directors after claiming the highest number of votes of all candidates in the election.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi highlighted in Frommer's Top Destinations for 2010
The popular US travel site selected the Emirate as a top travel destination for 2010.
See Full Story.UAE Embassy celebrates 38th National Day
A visiting delegation of Emirati women leaders was honored at an event that included influential guests from the business, nonprofit, and diplomatic sectors.
See Full Story.UAE women leaders visit Washington, DC
A delegation of senior Emirati women visited Washington, DC to meet with their US counterparts in government, business and think tanks, in order to exchange views on the role of women around the world and highlight the important role women hold in UAE society.
See Full Story.Ambassador Al Otaiba visit to Cleveland Clinic highlights UAE-US commercial, health partnerships
The Ambassador lauded the UAE's longstanding partnership with the Clinic in a speech to community members.
See Full Story.Dubai's economic strategy
During a recent speech, the UAE Prime Minister noted steps Dubai is taking, in coordination with the UAE federal government, to weather the global financial crisis.
See Full Story.UN praises UAE efforts to enhance labor conditions
A top UN official lauded the UAE participation in the Global Forum on Migration and Development. See Full Story.
Sheikh Khalifa re-elected UAE president
The Supreme Federal Council voted Sheikh Khalifa to a second term in recognition of his leadership in economic and social development.
See Full Story.Formula 1 Abu Dhabi dazzles
The inaugural race drew an international crowd and an unparalleled weekend of music, sport and entertainment.
See Full Story.New York Philharmonic makes Abu Dhabi debut
The world-renowned ensemble played to a sold-out crowd at the Emirates Palace hotel.
See Full Story.UAE hosts Middle East Film Festival
The Abu Dhabi event showcased top caliber films from Arab and international artists.
See Full Story.FT: UAE's Masdar City is the "real deal"
Financial Times columnist Edwin Heathcote explores plans for the "world's first serious eco-city."
See Full Story.UAE University in world's top 400
UAE University, the Emirates' oldest federal university, was identified as one of the top 400 higher education institutions in the world by Times Higher Education (UK).
See Full Story.National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking highlights achievements
A visiting delegation from the UN Commission on Human Rights reviewed UAE efforts to combat human trafficking.
See Full Story.Sheikha Lubna launches new trade site
The new portal will be the main source of information on the Ministry of Trade and UAE foreign investment.
See Full Story.UAE issues nuclear law
The new law makes the UAE the first nation to ban uranium enrichment and enables the development of a peaceful nuclear energy program.
See Full Story.Classes start at Masdar Institute
The inaugural class of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology began studies at the landmark school dedicated to alternative energy technologies.
See Full Story.UAE donation to transform pediatric medicine
A $150 million gift to Children's National Medical Center will support groundbreaking research to make surgery more precise, less painful, and less invasive for children at the newly-created Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi Crown Prince praises strength, breadth of UAE-US relationship in meetings with President Obama
HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, concluded his visit to Washington by meeting with US President Barack Obama.
See Full Story.UAE praised for arms vessel seizure
The UN Security Council praised the UAE's detainment of a ship carrying illegal arms to Iran, saying the bold action, "demonstrated that the UAE government had remained vigilant in the face of illicit trade in weapons."
See Full Story.Dubai unveils mass-transit rail system
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took the inaugural ride on a world-class metro system that brings greater accessibility to Emirati citizens.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi Crown Prince visits Washington, underscores deep bilateral ties
HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, met with senior US government officials, including President Obama, during a visit to the US capital.
See Full Story.WINEP report notes UAE’s export control efforts
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy highlighted the UAE’s cooperation with US officials to further strengthen and enforce export controls.
See Full Story.US Commerce Secretary voices strong support for 123 Agreement
Secretary Gary Locke affirmed the Administration's support for the US-UAE agreement for peaceful nuclear cooperation with the UAE. He called the UAE a "strong regional ally," with whom the US has a "mutually beneficial political, security and economic relationship."
See Full Story.Dubai Cares improves education for 4 million children
Since opening in 2007, the organization has improved educational facilities and resources in over 20 poverty-stricken countries as part of the UN's Millenium Development Goals campaign.
See Full Story.IAEA conventions accepted
The UAE notified the International Atomic Energy Agency that it has agreed to three conventions on nuclear safety, accepting IAEA standards on safety and security for nuclear power plants, radioactive fuel, and spent waste.
See Full Story.NYU Abu Dhabi announces scholars
Twenty Emirati students were awarded prestigious NYU Abu Dhabi scholarship, which provides access to special courses, leadership training and travel opportunities.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi fab investment boosts Upstate New York economy
A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Saratoga, New York to inaugurate construction on the 4.2 billion dollar GlobalFoundries chip manufacturing facility. Once completed, the fab is anticipated to create over 5,000 jobs in Saratoga County.
See Full Story.Top lawmakers endorse UAE-US nuclear trade agreement
Resolutions in both the US House and Senate endorse the US-UAE Civilian Nuclear Cooperation Agreement.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi awards Massachusetts company with scanning contract
American Science and Engineering Inc. received a $8.6 million order from Abu Dhabi Customs for X-ray screening systems, to boost border security.
See Full Story.US Congress holds hearing on 123 Agreement
In testimony before a US House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on the US-UAE 123 Agreement, Ellen Tauscher, Under-Secretary for Arms Control and International Security, offered praise for the agreement during her testimony, calling it a "model" for Arab states. Under-Secretary Tauscher noted that the agreement represented a “significant non-proliferation achievement.”
See Full Story.Khalifa Foundation launches humanitarian initiatives
The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation recently signed agreements with UNICEF to support children in Afghanistan through a number of humanitarian and development initiatives, this is KBZF’s second such agreement. KBZF is also partnering with Virgin Unite, of the UK, to work on joint education and health initiatives for impoverished communities.
See Full Story.UAE to host renewable energy headquarters
Abu Dhabi will host the new headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in Masdar City.
See Full Story.Dubai’s growing art scene
TIME highlights Dubai’s growing fine art and commercial design scene and the unofficial development of a “creative district,” to foster local talent.
See Full Story.UAE first country to ratify IRENA statute
The UAE completed ratification of the statute of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the first country to do so. The UAE also created an endowment fund of up to US$50 million annually solely to help IRENA carry out renewable energy development projects.
See Full Story.UAE response to US State Department human trafficking report
Dr. Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, released a statement describing the UAE’s disappointment with the recently released State Department “Trafficking in Persons Report.” See Full Story.
MOU to strengthen US-UAE relationship
The US Council on Competitiveness and the Emirates Competitiveness Council signed an MOU to initiate public and private partnership to enhance economic cooperation.
See Full Story.UAE Cabinet sets standards for workers’ accommodations
New Cabinet guidelines provide detailed expectations for workers' housing, from protection against environmental pollution and noise to providing markets and playgrounds.
See Full Story.Masdar City connects first solar power plant
Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City connected its first major solar power plant to the emirate’s power grid, a major step forward in the emirate’s development of renewable energy.
See Full Story.Nunn-Cohen: Nuclear cooperation in US interest
From a U.S. national security standpoint, the U.S.-U.A.E. 123 Agreement is good for the United States. It is also good for the international nonproliferation regime, write the former US senators.
See Full Story.President Obama transmits 123 Agreement
The US Congress was formally notified last week by President Obama of the proposed nuclear energy pact with the UAE, known as a 123 Agreement.
See Full Story.UAE residents most favorable to US
A Zogby International poll found that in the UAE, 52 per cent of those surveyed have a favorable rating of the US, the highest rating ever given to the US by any Arab country since Zogby International began polling across the Arab world in 2002.
See Full Story.Colin Powell lauds Dubai investment in education, health
A commencement speaker at the American University in Dubai, former US Secretary of State Colin Powell praised Dubai’s investment in education and health care.
See Full Story.Anti-Defamation League visits the UAE
The UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research met with a US Anti-Defamation League delegation. They discussed the need for cultivating cross-cultural cooperation, fraternity and understanding.
See Full Story.UAE continues to implement export control measures
The UAE Committee on Commodities Subject to Import and Export control met on the implementation of federal legislation to ban the export or re-export of military hardware, chemical and biological materials and dual-use items. See Full Story.
Phoenix and Dubai sign agreement to promote trade
After a two-year courtship, Phoenix and the Persian Gulf port of Dubai made their relationship official Wednesday in a ceremony packed with smiles and handshakes, gift exchanges and goodwill. See Full Story.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai best places to live in Middle East
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the best places to live in the Middle East, according to an international survey of more than 200 cities. See Full Story.
Duke University partners with Dubai institutions
Duke University will offer business education programs in Dubai. See Full Story.
US-UAE peaceful nuclear energy: An Arab counter example
Former Presidential adviser Elliott Abrams writes that the UAE nuclear program would be a "powerful counterexample to Iran" and that Congress should "quickly approve the [123] agreement." See Full Story.
UAE nuclear program could serve as model for Iran
Sonni Efron says the US-UAE 123 Agreement could serve as the prototype for a deal between the US and Tehran.
See Full Story.Abu Dhabi and University of Minnesota establish research institute
The University of Minnesota Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science has partnered with the Petroleum Institute, located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to establish the Abu Dhabi-Minnesota Institute for Research Excellence (ADMIRE), according to a statement released Tuesday.
See Full Story.UAE signs up for nuclear inspections
The UAE and the International Atomic Energy Agency signed an Additional Protocol to the safeguards agreement, establishing a procedure for stringent inspections of nuclear facilities and operations.
See Full Story.White House praises UAE nuclear energy program as model for the world
A Wall Street Journal article quotes a senior White House official saying that President Obama sees the UAE peaceful nuclear energy program as a “model for the world.”
See Full Story.UAE submits bid to host IRENA headquarters
The United Arab Emirates has officially submitted its bid for Abu Dhabi to host the newly founded International Renewable Energy Agency's (IRENA) headquarters in Masdar City.
See Full Story.UAE to aid Pakistan
During an international donor conference to support Pakistan, US Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke particularly commended the UAE for its $300 million commitment.
See Full Story.UAE Ambassador reaffirms Afghan troop role
UAE Ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, reaffirmed that the UAE will maintain troops in Afghanistan in order to support stability in the region.
See Full Story.UN pleased with UAE action on Human Rights
In March, the UN Human Rights Council unanimously adopted a final report by the UAE at the conclusion of the UNHRC’s first review of human rights conditions in the UAE.a
See Full Story.UAE largest investor in Iraq
UAE-based companies and funds are the largest investors in Iraq, representing 50% of all investments in value terms. See Full Story.
UAE biggest US export market in Middle East
The UAE surpassed Israel and Saudi Arabia as America’s largest export market in the Middle East. See Full Story.
New export control security measure
Inspections of long-haul dhows will move to Al Hamriya Port, with more modern facilities, improving compliance with UN sanctions designed to deny Iran access to technology that could have military and nuclear applications. See Full Story.
AMD closes deal for NY microchip manufacturing
Advanced Micro Devices closed the deal with two Abu Dhabi investment firms to spin-off manufacturing operations. The move supports the creation of high tech jobs in the US deal and the creation of a new factory in New York State. See Full Story.
Washington Post columnist favors 123 Agreement
Jim Hoagland writes in March that the Obama Administration, “should strongly support the UAE agreement in Congress as a model of nuclear cooperation and, more broadly, give urgent priority to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons through the Middle East.” See Full Story.
UAE leader meets with Envoy George Mitchell
Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan held talks with US Middle East Envoy George Mitchell on the importance of Arab, American and European efforts to bring about resumption of Palestinian-Israeli negotiations. See Full Story.
US Ambassador calls UAE a trade magnet
In a speech on UAE's National Day, US Ambassador to the UAE Richard G. Olson noted that "Today, the United Arab Emirates is a major commercial hub of the Gulf region; a magnet for trade, transportation, tourism, and business services; a growing center in service fields such as education and health care.In one generation, we have built a relationship that encompasses every field.A regular schedule of visits and dialogue, in both directions, that speaks to the depth and seriousness of our ties." Read Ambassador Olson's full speech. | See Full Story.
US-UAE joint statement on bilateral relationship
In November 2008, the US Department of State released a joint statement that read, in part, "The United States and the United Arab Emirates have an enduring partnership and share a common vision for a secure, stable, and prosperous Middle East. They share a belief in peace, respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all states, and a belief that religious tolerance and moderation will prevail over violence and extremism. It is these commonly held tenets that have brought the United States and the UAE to a new level of friendship and cooperation." See Full Story.
First UAE female judge sworn in
In October 2008, Judge Khulood al Dhaheri, the UAE's first female judge, was sworn in. HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, stated: "The involvement of women in Government has been evidenced with the appointment of a female minister, the appointment of women to the Federal National Council and now the appointment of the first female judge. The decision to appoint female judges helps consolidate Emirati women's growing role in public life." See Full Story.
UAE–Based Cultural Initiative Participates in National Book Festival in Washington
UAE–based Kalima –an innovative cultural initiative whose mission is to translate more than 100 works of classic and contemporary titles each year into Arabic– was a sponsor of the National Book Festival, which took place on September 27, 2008, and was organized by the Library of Congress. As part of its visit to the US, Kalima invited Americans to nominate literature by US authors for translation. See Full Story.
UAE, US Sign Agreement on Educational Exchanges
Dr. Hanif Hassan, UAE Minister of Education, and Margaret Spellings, US Secretary of Education, signed a memorandum of understanding on teacher and student exchanges between the two countries. Exchanges could begin as early as fall 2009, and Secretary Spellings said the agreement will help to reduce misunderstanding between the US and the Arab World, and will lead to cooperation on “key issues.”
Abu Dhabi, US Treasury Reach Agreement on Sovereign Funds Principles
Officials from the US Treasury, Abu Dhabi and Singapore agreed to a set of guiding principles for sovereign wealth funds (SWF), reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s earlier statements that SWF investment decisions should be based solely on commercial grounds. US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said that the UAE has “long–established, well–respected funds” and that the country showed “real leadership” by collaborating with Treasury officials. See Full Story.
