From Israel, Pompeo travels to Sudan, Bahrain, UAE this week
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo began a tour through the Middle East and North Africa meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday after landing in Israel.
Pompeo will continue on from Israel to Sudan, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates between Aug. 23 to 28.
In Israel, Pompeo would be discussing "regional security issues related to Iran’s malicious influence, establishing and deepening Israel’s relationships in the region, as well as cooperation in protecting the U.S. and Israeli economies from malign investors," according to the State Department.
Since the announcement by the American administration of full diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE, the focus has been on which country will be next in line to normalize relations with Israel. Sudan and Bahrain are among them - and Pompeo's schedule reflects that speculation.
"In Sudan, the Secretary will meet with Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and Sovereign Council Chair General Abdel Fattah el-Burhan to discuss continued U.S. support for the civilian-led transitional government and express support for deepening the Sudan-Israel relationship."
"The Secretary will then travel to Manama to meet with Crown Prince of Bahrain Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa," according to the State Department schedule.
"He will conclude his trip in the United Arab Emirates, where he will meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi to discuss the historic Abraham Accords agreement with Israel and regional issues."
"The U.S. commitment to peace, security, and stability in Israel, Sudan, and among Gulf countries has never been stronger than under President Trump’s leadership."
