Washington, Abu Dhabi – US President Donald Trump received at the White House on Monday Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with whom he discussed strategic relations and a number of regional and international issues.

According to WAM news agency, the leaders reaffirmed the close UAE-US security partnership and committed to intensify the fight against extremism. They also discussed mutual concerns and responses to Iran’s destabilizing interference in the affairs of regional states.

Trump said he was honored to meet with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, whom he described as a distinguished leader, who loves his country.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the president’s upcoming dialogue with Muslim leaders later this month in Riyadh, his first foreign visit since taking office and a powerful signal to the Islamic world, reported WAM.

He also praised Trump’s policy to engage and strengthen America’s relationship with its key regional partners and for his assertive approach against extremism and aggression.

The Abu Dhabi crown prince also highlighted joint UAE-US efforts to promote religious and ethnic tolerance, to counter extremist ideology and to fight illicit financing.

Sheikh Mohamed underlined the major role assumed by the United States in strengthening regional stability. He applauded Trump’s efforts to explore new paths to resume Palestinian- Israeli negotiations.

He also encouraged greater collective efforts toward peace and stability in Libya, Yemen and Syria and stressed the need for coordinated and expanded assistance to meet the growing humanitarian challenges resulting from conflict and food shortages throughout the region.

On economic relations, the two leaders stressed the importance of expanding bilateral UAE-US trade and investment relations, with the aim to support economic growth and prosperity in both countries.