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Feature Stories

NEWS | June 24, 2021

Our Partnership continues: ASG-KU hosts bilateral engagement

By Joseph Black Area Support Group-Kuwait

Leaders from Area Support – Group – Kuwait and U.S. Army Central hosted a bilateral engagement with leadership from the Kuwait Ministry of Defense and Kuwait military, June 20, 2021, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.

U.S. Army Central deputy commanding general, Maj. Gen. Douglas Crissman opened the meeting by acknowledging the challenges last year and welcoming guests to the event.

“This past year has been difficult for all of us,” said Crissman. “COVID-19 has been an enemy that has changed our lives both in the military and in our day to day lives. Today, we recognize our strong partnerships and reaffirm our dedication to those partnerships as we continue to grow together in Kuwait.”

Crissman spoke about building shared military infrastructure through the JIC process that provides improved barracks, warehouses, and power to Camp Arifjan and Buehring.

“We know there is a need for a presence in the region that allows us to expand rapidly should the need arise and this comes from infrastructure, training and partnership with our Kuwaiti partners,” said Crissman.

Leaders from the Kuwait military agreed with the importance of joint force teamwork, including Kuwait Maj. Gen. Waleed Al-Sardi, Kuwait Ministry of Defense Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and Operations.

“We value our partnership on a political and military level,” said Al-Sardi. “We are interested in expanding our capabilities together so that we can get through any issues that could come up.”

The conversation also included the topic of the Udari Range Complex, located near Camp Buehring.

“It is imperative that we maintain the Udari Range Complex so that all units, U.S. and Kuwait, can receive up-to-date and challenging training,” said Crissman.

There are currently 13 joint-training events scheduled for fiscal year 22, including air defense, land forces interoperability, and disaster response.

Closing remarks from the Kuwait Land Forces Director of Operations Brig. Gen. Khalid Al-Shula captured the support from the host nation partners.

“All the exercises we do together enhance capabilities on both sides,” said Al-Shula. “We all look forward to these future exercises with our U.S. allies.”