UAE thanks US for approving $23bn arms sales

Abu Dhabi, Dec 10 (IANS) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday thanked the US for approving an arms sale worth $23 billion.The development came a day after the US Senate rejected efforts to block the sale of arms, which includes some 50 F-35 fighter jets, at least 18 Reaper drones and other precision weapons, Gulf News reported.In a statement, Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE Ambassador to the US said: "The UAE deeply appreciates the consideration of all Senators in today's vote. Continued US support enable the UAE to take on more of the burden for our collective security — ours, yours and our partners."It improves US-UAE inter-operability and allows us to be more effective together. It makes us all safer, be more tolerant and future-oriented. "The UAE is charting a new positive path for the Middle East. We are committed to regional de-escalation and dialogue."Last month, US President Donald Trump's administration notified Congress of the intended $23 billion arms sale to UAE.Administration officials have reiterated that the arms sale, particularly the transfer of the coveted F-35 fighter jets, was an acknowledgement of the broader diplomatic initiatives between the two nations.
--IANS ksk/