Turkey, U.A.E. Discuss Joint Defense Projects

Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) are forging ahead with their collaborative efforts in the defense industry as the first meeting of the working group formed by the Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) and the U.A.E.'s Tawazun Council took place in Abu Dhabi.

This meeting follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SSB and Tawazun in early July, which laid the foundation for strategic cooperation in the defense industry. The agreement enabled the sharing of insights into procurement processes and defense ecosystems, setting the stage for deeper collaboration and joint technology management initiatives.

During the meeting, various crucial topics were discussed, including the development of a common roadmap, research and development initiatives, and the initiation of joint defense projects. The shared vision of enhancing the defense industry in both nations was evident as the participants engaged in comprehensive discussions.

Muammar Abdulla Abushehab, CEO of Tawazun Council, expressed the significance of the Working Group meeting by stating, "This Working Group meeting is a key component of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed between the U.A.E. and Turkey. The agreement represents our commitment to advancing our strategic partnership and exploring mutually beneficial pathways in the defense sector. We are willing to work to implement the plans emerging from the meeting, which will play a very important role in developing our bilateral relations."

Shareef Al Hashmi, CEO of Tawazun Council Operations, emphasized the successful outcome of the meeting, describing it as a cornerstone for ongoing strategic collaboration. He announced that the two countries have committed to building on the progress made during this meeting, with the next meeting scheduled to be held in Turkey in 2024.