Pentagon chief praises "special" relationship between US, Kuwait

WASHINGTON, Dec 6 (KUNA) -- US Secretary of Defense James Mattis praised Tuesday the relationship between the US and Kuwait, saying the relationship between the US Department of Defense and the State of Kuwait, the military of Kuwait, the leadership of Kuwait "is obviously one that was really forged in a fight, in a war for the liberation of Kuwait." Speaking to reporters en route to the US, Mattis said "since that time, there has been a special bilateral relationship. We can always count on them. It's a very open, transparent, honest relationship." He added that Kuwait is a "cosmopolitan country and has been for many years," saying His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah "is very big, for example, on education for his young people.
It's a very high priority. So, they encourage their young people to go to United Kingdom, United States." He reiterated that "it's a very close relationship," and that "it's a close and very much of a partnership kind of relationship." Meanwhile, the Pentagon chief affirmed, "for the United States, we need the GCC structure.
We need the unity of GCC, in terms of a stabilizing influence in the Gulf," reiterating that the US support His Highness the Amir's efforts in this regard, "we applaud what he's doing, and we stand with him on that effort.
We're looking for cohesion in the GCC and the peaceful resolution of the regional disputes." In a statement summarizing Mattis' meeting in Kuwait, chief Pentagon spokesperson Dana White said in a statement that Mattis expressed appreciation for the strategic partnership between the US and Kuwait, and that he thanked His Highness the Amir "for his nation's ongoing support in the fight against the Islamic State (in) Iraq and Syria, specifically Kuwait's hospitality in hosting US and coalition forces based in Kuwait in support of military operations." She added that Mattis "also recognized Kuwait's critical role in hosting the Gulf Cooperation Council summit and mediating the rift among its member nations," adding that he noted the importance of de-escalating tensions so all partners in the Gulf region can focus on the next steps in meeting common goals.
Earlier this week, Mattis arrived in Kuwait for a three-day visit and as part of a regional tour.
Mattis also met with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah accompanied by His Highness the Crown Prince Shiekh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah at Bayan Palace.
Mattis conveyed greetings and appreciation on behalf of US President Donald Trump and his wishes to His Highness the Amir good health, and prosperity to the people of Kuwait. (end) si.mb