UAE President holds talks with US Energy Secretary

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to strengthening global energy security during talks with US Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright, in Abu Dhabi.

During the meeting, which took place at Qasr Al Shati, Sheikh Mohamed and Wright discussed the strategic relations between the two countries, with a focus on energy cooperation, joint investments in advanced technology and artificial intelligence, and sustainable economic growth. 

The talks also explored opportunities to foster investment in the energy sector, national news agency Wam reported.

Sheikh Mohamed also reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to deepening its longstanding partnership with the US.

Wright, who is in the UAE as part of his first official international trip, described the bilateral relations with the UAE as witnessing “rapid growth” in investment and joint cooperation.

His regional trip, which includes Saudi Arabia and Qatar, aims to strengthen ties with key geostrategic and energy allies.

"I think the UAE has been an early mover in AI. I saw incredible progress today in applying AI to their own energy system, and a big vision for where their future is going," Wright told reporters following a visit to ADNOC head quarters.

He added that AI will drive the next phase of energy demand, particularly for natural gas and electricity, providing scope for more strategic partnerships between the two countries. 

Trump tariffs

Addressing US President Donald Trump's latest decision to impose hefty tariffs on a dozen countries, only to retract it later, Wright explained it is aimed at "achieving balance in global trade and revitalise (the country's) manufacturing sector".

In an interview published on national news agency Wam, Wright explained that while "the US has long been open to imports, its trading partners have not shown similar openness toward its exports".

He added that the US administration is seeking to achieve reciprocity, as well as to stimulate local industries through tools such as tariffs. Wright noted that the policy will contribute to strengthening economic growth in both the United States and globally, despite the challenges that may accompany the transition phase.

The baseline tariff of 10 per cent on imports from the UAE and a number of countries in the region was introduced on April 5.