The U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council hosted a private conversation for its defense and security members on Wednesday, April 19th with Dana Stroul, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East. Deputy Assistant Secretary Stroul provided insights on the current contours of the U.S.-U.A.E. defense and security relationship and DoD’s perspectives on recent regional developments.

DASD Stroul discussed her current priorities leading the Middle East Policy office in the Department of Defense. She also offered her views on the current state of the U.S.-U.A.E. defense and security relationship and highlighted potential opportunities for U.S. business.

Regarding the recent agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Deputy Assistant Secretary Stroul shared her opinions on China’s growing role in the Middle East region particularly as it relates to DoD’s partnerships with key regional allies and strategic partners.

Defense industry leaders also questioned DASD Stroul about the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on U.S. partnerships in the Middle East region.

Deputy Assistant Secretary Stroul discussed defense cooperation at the GCC level and the requests received by U.S. industry to enter into research and development and production partnership arrangements with regional players. Moreover, she outlined specific next steps with a view towards how U.S. industry can support important coalition building initiatives.

Deputy Assistant Secretary Stroul also discussed the Abraham Accords, and the strengthening of relationships between Israel and Arab countries, including opportunities for U.S. industry.

For more information about this event, please contact Amira Siddiqi at asiddiqi@usuaebusiness.org.