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Press Release | Oct. 23, 2022

READOUT: CENTCOM commander meets Qatari military, defense leaders

USCENTCOM

Oct 23, 2022

Release Number 20221023-11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAMPA, Fla. – From October 20 to 23, General Michael “Erik” Kurilla, CENTCOM commander, visited Qatar for meetings with Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Salim Hamad Aqil Al-Nabit, and the Qatar Minister of State for Defense Affairs, His Excellency Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah.

During his visits with the Qatari armed forces leadership, Kurilla reinforced the strength of the US-Qatar military partnership, an enduring relationship that dates back more than 50 years to the onset of Qatari independence. Qatar, a Major non-NATO ally, is critical to the security and stability of the Middle East.

Kurilla expressed confidence in Qatar’s ability to ensure a safe and secure World Cup next month. He also thanked Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah for Qatar’s important role in the release of American citizen Mark Frerichs last month after two years in captivity in Afghanistan.

“Our strategic approach is summarized by three words: People, Partners, and Innovation,” said Kurilla. “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.”