The Peninsula
The top US military general for the Middle East has expressed “great confidence” that Qatar will host a safe FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
“We have great confidence in the ability of the Qatar Armed Forces to safely host the World Cup,” said US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander, H E General Michael Kurilla.
In an email interview with The Peninsula during his visit to Qatar, General Kurilla also discussed the Qatar-US strategic partnership in defense, security and military. “US-Qatar relations are strong. This is a critically important strategic partnership for the US, Qatar, and for the region.
“Today, we share a vision for security in the region that continues and — in light of today’s complex threats — is more important than ever,” he said, adding that Qatar-US military relations date back more than 50 years, even before the CENTCOM was formed.
General Kurilla said President Joe Biden personally designating Qatar as a major non-NATO Ally makes it clear that the present US administration values relations with Qatar.
“We in CENTCOM see the great value in our military partnership with the Qatar Armed Forces. We must rely on this ironclad relationship for regional security,” he said.
He said that the US “values tremendously” the military partnership with Qatar. “Our strategic approach is summarized by three words: People, Partners, and Innovation. We must rely on our strong military partners in the region such as the Qatar Armed Forces, for security and stability in the region. No Nation can go it alone, and no one can solve the region’s complex problems alone. We are committed to strengthening our partnership with our Qatari partners,” said General Kurilla.
He said there were “many opportunities ahead” for the Qatar-US defense partnership. “We have many training exercises throughout the year with the Qatar Armed Forces. These exercises allow both nations to focus on border security, air defense, and air-to-ground integration,” he said.
“The US military and the Qatar Armed Forces want the same things: the resolution of conflict, regional stability, the defeat of violent extremist organizations, and the de-escalation of tensions throughout the region.”