Remarks During a Tour of an Alternative Fuel Sources Exhibit in Abu Dhabi

It's amazing, isn't it? This country has gotten its wealth from the ground and is now reinvesting in alternative forms of energy, sometimes joint venturing with U.S. institutions, like MIT.

[At this point, the tour continued, and no transcript was provided. The remarks continued as follows.]

It's a modern society that is using its wealth not only to educate its people but to stay on the leading edge of technological change.

And, Your Highness, it's been an amazing experience for me. And I don't think most Americans understand the UAE. And I don't think most Americans understand that your education systems are modern and that you're thinking about the future in constructive ways. I appreciate the chance to learn about you.

[The tour continued, and no transcript was provided. The remarks later concluded as follows.]

My hope is my visit shines a spotlight on the Middle East, the opportunities to work constructively with our friends and allies, and shows people the truth about what life is like here in the UAE. This is a remarkable place. The architecture is beautiful, but the can-do spirit is amazing.

And we just heard a briefing about how they're going to construct a city based entirely upon renewable energy. It is—it will be an opportunity to see what works, what won't work, and an opportunity to share that technology with others.

And I appreciate the commitment to conservation and to the environment that the leadership has shown here. This has been a very interesting experience. I can't thank you enough for your hospitality.