RIYADH: The American ambassador to º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Michael Ratney on Tuesday lauded the recent World Defense Show held in Riyadh as having been a “fantastic opportunity†for the US to further strengthen its strategic partnerships with the Kingdom.
Showcasing cutting-edge technologies in military industries, the WDS covered the latest defense innovations in air, land, sea, space, and security.
The five-day show, which concluded on Feb. 8, was hosted by the Saudi General Authority for Military Industries in collaboration with public- and private-sector partners in Riyadh.
Ratney told Arab News: “The World Defense Show was a fantastic opportunity for me and the entire US Mission to deepen strategic partnerships, expand commercial opportunities for US industry, and demonstrate the enduring presence of the United States in º£½ÇÖ±²¥ and the region.
“With over 100 US companies and a significant contingent of US military and civilian personnel, we were able to showcase the cutting-edge capabilities of the US defense industry and its commitment to the highest standards of quality and service.â€
The envoy noted that American participation at this year’s event had been ramped up significantly.
He said: “US participation in the show was almost 40 percent more than at the last World Defense Show two years ago.
“This strong US presence is a testament to the longstanding cooperation with our strategic partner º£½ÇÖ±²¥ in the defense sector and underscores our shared commitment to security and stability in the region.â€
Ratney added that he had enjoyed his experience among the Saudi dunes in an American Humvee Saber.
