World Defense Show ‘fantastic opportunity’ for America to strengthen strategic partnerships: US envoy to Saudi Arabia

The American ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney on Tuesday lauded the recent World Defense Show held in Riyadh as having been a “fantastic opportunity” for the US to further strengthen its strategic partnerships with the Kingdom.

Showcasing cutting-edge technologies in military industries, the WDS covered the latest defense innovations in air, land, sea, space, and security.

The five-day show, which concluded on Feb. 8, was hosted by the Saudi General Authority for Military Industries in collaboration with public- and private-sector partners in Riyadh.

Ratney said: “The World Defense Show was a fantastic opportunity for me and the entire US Mission to deepen strategic partnerships, expand commercial opportunities for US industry, and demonstrate the enduring presence of the United States in Saudi Arabia and the region.

“With over 100 US companies and a significant contingent of US military and civilian personnel, we were able to showcase the cutting-edge capabilities of the US defense industry and its commitment to the highest standards of quality and service.”

The envoy noted that American participation at this year’s event had been ramped up significantly.

He said: “US participation in the show was almost 40 percent more than at the last World Defense Show two years ago.

“This strong US presence is a testament to the longstanding cooperation with our strategic partner Saudi Arabia in the defense sector and underscores our shared commitment to security and stability in the region.”

Ratney added that he had enjoyed his experience among the Saudi dunes in an American Humvee Saber.