Deterrence, diplomacy key to sustainable regional security: Anwar Gargash

Dr. Anwar Gargash, the Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, reinforced the UAE's commitment to peace and stability in a complex regional landscape during a keynote session at the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2026. Dr. Gargash, championing the nation's balanced approach, stressed that deterrence and diplomacy are mutually reinforcing, each bolstering the credibility of the other.

He highlighted the UAE's strategic projects, particularly Etihad Rail, as evidence of the country's resolve to advance its development plans. The UAE's global leadership in artificial intelligence and digital transformation, achieved through foresight and sustained effort, was hailed as an inspiring example.

Dr. Gargash emphasized that UAE diplomacy has maintained a strong and comprehensive presence, engaging in hundreds of meetings and partnerships worldwide, built on a record of credibility and trust. He cited the UAE's engagement with Africa, where trade has surpassed $107 billion, and investments approaching $150 billion, as a success story in diversifying partnerships and forging direct connections with a changing world.

Addressing the shared challenges of the region, Dr. Gargash underscored the need for flexibility and rationality, rejecting escalation in favor of political and diplomatic solutions to avert prolonged conflicts. He reiterated the UAE's zero-tolerance approach to extremism, emphasizing that security begins with confronting hatred.

In summary, Dr. Gargash affirmed that the UAE, guided by its leadership, will continue to expand and diversify its partnerships, invest in advanced technologies and infrastructure, and strengthen its international presence through effective diplomacy, remaining a beacon of tolerance and a force for positive change in the region.