The Pentagon announced Wednesday that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates to meet with senior government officials and discuss regional priorities.

“While in Bahrain, Secretary Austin will also deliver remarks at the annual International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Manama Dialogue that will reaffirm the US resolve to advance and strengthen enduring defense partnerships and commitment to the long-standing US leadership role in strengthening regional security and stability,” according to the Pentagon.

Austin will meet with partners and allied leaders from around the world at the IISS Dialogue.

According to the Pentagon, “Secretary Austin will meet with senior government officials in the United Arab Emirates to reaffirm the importance of the US-UAE strategic partnership.”

During his visit to Bahrain and the UAE, Austin will also pay visits to US troops deployed and stationed in the region to “thank them for their service, sacrifice, and dedication, and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving week.”