ABU DHABI – In a recent effort to solidify its defense cooperation with Asian countries, the UAE signed an agreement with Japan to facilitate the transfer of defense equipment and technology.
Major General Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri, Assistant Undersecretary for Support and Defence Industries at the UAE’s Ministry of Defense, and Japan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Akio Isomata, had signed the agreement.
The signing, which took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, aims to promote cooperative research, development, and production projects. It also aims to strengthen bilateral ties and foster broader cooperation, particularly in the military and defense industries.
Malaysia ties
In a move to enhance its long-standing defense cooperation with Malaysia, the UAE is participating in the 16th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2023, which is running until May 27.
The UAE’s involvement, marked by a special pavilion at LIMA 2023, one of the most significant maritime and aerospace exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region, extends the wide-reaching UAE-Malaysia cooperation aimed at driving sustainable development in both countries.
EDGE, a leading global advanced technology and defense group, is presenting a diverse product portfolio customizable to the region’s specific requirements, aligning with its ambition to broaden its global reach.
Through these collaborations, the two countries aim to elevate performance, efficiency, and teamwork levels in line with their strategy to enhance the readiness of their defense forces and their capacity to handle diverse military operations.
This close cooperation is also evident in the ongoing joint military exercises between the UAE and Malaysian armed forces, as well as in their collaborations in the field of military training.
Joint military drill
Earlier this year, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the UAE’s Armed Forces, and His Majesty Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, King of Malaysia, witnessed the conclusion of the “Desert Tiger 6” joint military exercise. This joint venture took place in the UAE, showcasing the high level of coordination and readiness achieved through meticulous military training, ensuring the security and protection of their nations.
The two countries also seek to increase participation in specialized military, defense, and security exhibitions and conferences. Last year, the UAE participated in the Defence Services Asia Exhibition & Conference (DSA) held in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, Malaysia participates biennially in the IDEX and NAVDEX exhibitions in Abu Dhabi.
The UAE’s intensified defense cooperation with Asian countries in recent years is part of a broader effort to diversify its security partnerships and decrease its dependence on the United States.