UK defence secretary thanks UAE for role in fighting Daesh

Defence secretary Gavin Williamson has commended the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the role it has played in the fight against Daesh.

During his first visit to the country, Mr Williamson met with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Mohammed bin Zayed, and his Emirati counterpart, Mohammed Ahmad Al Bowardi, to reaffirm the historic and successful defence relationship between Britain and the UAE.

The UK defence secretary explained to the two that Gulf security is vital to that of the UK and that events in the Gulf have a direct impact on the security of the British public.

“Our long-standing and deep relationship with our Gulf partners epitomises Britain’s global outlook,” he commented.

“Be it through our involvement in the Duqm port project in Oman or the opening of the Naval Support Facility in Bahrain, we are committed to regional security and stability.”

The UAE is the most-visited port globally by the Royal Navy, something that highlights the value Britain places on its support to regional stability and security.