WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2017 — Defense Secretary James N. Mattis met in Kuwait today with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, following meetings Dec. 3 with Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Mohammad Al Khalid Al Sabah.
In a statement summarizing today's meeting, chief Pentagon spokesperson Dana W. White said Mattis expressed appreciation for the strategic partnership between the United States and Kuwait, and that he thanked the emir for his nation's ongoing support in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, specifically Kuwait's hospitality in hosting U.S. and coalition forces based in Kuwait in support of military operations.
Critical Gulf Cooperation Council Role
"The secretary also recognized Kuwait's critical role hosting the Gulf Cooperation Council summit and mediating the rift among its member nations," White said, 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.
Mattis was in Kuwait as part of an overseas trip in which he also visited Egypt, Jordan and Pakistan.