US is betting on Masdar, says Hillary Clinton

The US is banking on the efforts of Abu Dhabi and the UAE to develop clean energy, according to Hillary Clinton, who visited the site of Masdar City on Monday.

“I want the world to know that the US is partnering with you because we are betting on Abu Dhabi and the UAE,” the US secretary of state told an audience of students and reporters.

“We are betting that this incredible investment represented by Masdar is going to pay off. And when it pays off, it will not only mean a better life for the people in this country and in this region, it will have ripple effects throughout the world.”

Clinton also praised the UAE for focusing on renewal energy sources despite its role as a leading oil producer.

The US has played a significant role in Masdar City via the association of the venture’s educational institute with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

In addition, Masdar and the US Department of Energy signed a memorandum of understanding last year to promote joint research and development of clean energy technologies.

Abu Dhabi will host the second worldwide high-level ministerial meeting on clean energy in June, and the UAE capital will also hold the World Future Energy Summit between 17-20 January.

“This work is in the interest of not only global progress, but also our own domestic interests as well. Because clean energy will be a driver for good jobs,” Clinton added. 

“I know that there are many talented people here in the UAE, and giving scientists and engineers and technicians the opportunity to participate in the clean energy revolution will bring good jobs to the UAE, more income and a greater ability to create and spin off businesses.”

The politican also said that the US was fully committed to supporting the UAE’s work in the clean energy field, and would “do everything it can” to help via its academic institutions, inter-government involvement, and the US private sector.