During a February visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), US Central Command (CENTCOM) Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla demonstrated the enduring partnership between the two nations in their shared efforts to ensure peace and stability.

The CENTCOM commander met with Emirati National Security Advisor Sheik Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Issa Al Mazrouei on February 3 and 4.

The leaders discussed security challenges in the region, efforts to mitigate risks and their shared interest in defense innovation, according to CENTCOM.

They agreed to continue deepening the US-UAE security partnership.

The two sides also discussed their shared interest in defense technology innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence and advanced military capabilities.

They additionally covered strengthening military-to-military ties, including via continued joint exercises to improve interoperability and readiness, as well as efforts to secure shared economic prosperity.

Kurilla's visit reaffirmed the critical role the UAE plays in regional stability and the United States' support for its defense capabilities.

Decades of partnership

The United States and the UAE have a long-standing partnership that covers various facets of defense and security, including weapon sales, military aid and annual training for UAE military personnel.

The roots of collaboration with the United States go back to the UAE's early years as a nation.

The United States was one of the first countries to establish formal diplomatic ties with the UAE -- in 1972, a year after its establishment as a country -- and the relationship between the two nations has continued to expand.

They have signed multiple defense cooperation agreements, including a 1987 General Security of Military Information Agreement, a 2006 Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement and a 2019 Defense Cooperation Agreement.

Over the years, the agreements have facilitated training exercises and the transfer of advanced weapon systems.

The United States and the UAE conduct regular training operations to enhance combat readiness and interoperability between their forces. These include air, land and naval drills aimed at improving coordination in real-world scenarios.

In December, the US and UAE militaries held Desert Talon 24, which highlighted the unique air assault capabilities of the US Army, as well as military readiness and interoperability between partner forces.

That exercise rounded out a successful year of other major drills for the two nations, including Native Fury 24 and Iron Defender 24.