A recent conference in Qatar hosted by US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla underscored the deepening military partnership between the United States and Qatar.

The quarterly Component Commanders' Conference, held February 22 and 23 at Al Udeid Air Base, aimed to strengthen the bilateral partnership and bolster regional and global security.

During the event, Kurilla engaged with US and Qatari military leaders to discuss security cooperation and strategic opportunities, reinforcing the long-standing alliance between the two nations.

The conference brought together leaders from across CENTCOM, from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Special Operations, Space, Cyber, and the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, a CENTCOM statement said.

They discussed the current operational environment, security cooperation and countering violent extremist organizations. Together, they worked to identify strategic opportunities to enhance stability in the region.

While in Qatar, Kurilla also met with Chief of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Jassim Al Mannai and senior Qatari military leaders to discuss strengthening military-to-military cooperation and increasing interoperability.

Kurilla and Al Mannai reaffirmed their commitment to expanding joint operations and security initiatives, according to CENTCOM.

A longstanding partnership

The United States and Qatar have a partnership that is rooted in decades of US military aid and training, with diplomatic relations beginning in 1972, a year after Qatar's independence.

The partnership has continued to grow and strengthen, offering substantial advantages for both regional and global security.

By deepening security cooperation and exploring new strategic opportunities, the alliance remains essential in countering emerging threats and promoting peace in the region.

Qatar is a critical strategic defense partner for the United States, according to the US State Department.

A cornerstone of the US-Qatar defense relationship is Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military installation in the Middle East. The base serves as a key operational hub for CENTCOM and supports global counterterrorism efforts.

In 2022, the United States designated Qatar as a major non-NATO ally, qualifying it to purchase certain US arms, receive excess defense articles, and engage in defense research cooperation with the United States.

The United States has been steadfast in offering training for Qatar's military -- including on military operations, intelligence and joint operational planning.

Qatar also ranks as the third-largest customer of US defense systems worldwide, reflecting the depth of the bilateral ties.