US diplomat says Abu Dhabi connection is ‘anchor’ in Middle East

Martina Strong, the newly appointed United States Ambassador to the UAE, recently spoke to The National about her diplomatic ambitions for the region and the importance of building key alliances with China. This marks the first time in over six years that a career diplomat has filled the role of US Ambassador in Abu Dhabi, and Strong’s primary message is one of American commitment to the region. The prolonged vacancies in ambassadorial postings in strategic capitals like Abu Dhabi and Riyadh were often cited as examples of a lack of seriousness from Washington. Strong, who previously served as the acting head of mission in Saudi Arabia, emphasized the importance of the UAE as an “anchor” in America’s commitment to the region. She also acknowledged that while countries around the world may have partnerships with China, the US will voice concerns and work with partners to address them. Strong stated that the United States remains committed to the Middle East region, as President Joe Biden has made clear. Despite the recent withdrawal from Afghanistan and reduced presence in Iraq, the US continues to invest in and strengthen partnerships developed over the past decades. The geostrategic importance of the Middle East cannot be ignored, given its significance in transportation corridors, commercial activity, and the ability to face asymmetric threats. The partnership between the US and the UAE is particularly strong, extending to every dimension of security, including protecting the global commons and freedom of navigation. This partnership can serve as an anchor to President Biden’s vision of a more secure, stable, prosperous, and integrated region. The Abraham Accords, which marked their third anniversary last week, represent a historic step towards greater partnership, security, and stability in the region.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been expanding and strengthening its diplomatic relations with countries across the globe, particularly China. This development has been publicly acknowledged by several Congressmen and women, who have raised concerns about potential challenges that may arise. When asked about the potential impact of these ties on the relationship between the UAE and the United States, Ambassador Martina Strong responded succinctly, stating that she does not see any challenges arising from these ties.

Ambassador Strong emphasized that the United States recognizes that countries around the world will have partnerships with China, and that the United States itself has a broad relationship with China, with an annual trade of $700 billion. However, she also noted that where concerns arise, the United States will voice them and work with its partners to address them.

Ambassador Strong sees the world as currently experiencing a high point in multilateral diplomacy, and she does not agree that this is due to a decline in American leadership on the world stage. She emphasized that the United States is working together with its partners to address some of the greatest challenges facing humankind, as well as to capitalize on opportunities that lie ahead.

In addition to regional dynamics, Ambassador Strong stated that she will be focusing her efforts on climate action, with Cop28 being an absolute priority. She stressed the United States’ commitment to the success of Cop28 and highlighted the Biden administration’s belief in the leadership of the UAE on climate action. She expressed her appreciation for the UAE’s hosting of Cop28 and its dedication to tackling climate change.