His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, the Ambassador of Bahrain to the United States, recently participated in a seminar organized by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. The event marked the first anniversary of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) between the US and Bahrain. H.E. Steven C. Bondy, the US Ambassador to Bahrain, also took part in the seminar. The focus of the seminar was on the advancement of security and economic relations between the two countries since the signing of the historic agreement.
During the seminar, Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid praised the strategic relationship between Bahrain and the US, which reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He highlighted the role played by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in the diplomatic efforts that led to the signing of C-SIPA. There has also been continuous follow-up from Lieutenant General His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the National Security Advisor and Royal Guard Commander, in furthering the agreement’s implementation.
The Ambassador emphasized the significance of C-SIPA as a major milestone in the development of Bahraini-US relations and advanced cooperation between the two countries. He specifically pointed out Bahrain’s involvement in regional defence initiatives and how the agreement provides a framework for enhanced defence integration. This framework could potentially serve as a model for other nations with similar objectives. The core principles of the agreement, as highlighted by Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid, include respect for the rules-based international order, sovereignty, and freedom of navigation.
Another key aspect of the agreement highlighted by the Ambassador was the joint threat assessment and shared vision between Bahrain and the US in addressing global challenges. By working together on security and economic issues, the two nations aim to strengthen their partnership and contribute to regional and international stability. The seminar served as a platform to celebrate the progress made in bilateral relations since the signing of C-SIPA and to reaffirm the commitment of both countries to continued cooperation.
In conclusion, the participation of His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, the Ambassador of Bahrain to the United States, in the seminar organized by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy underscores the importance of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) between Bahrain and the US. This agreement has significantly advanced security and economic relations between the two countries, reflecting the strategic vision of their leaders. Moving forward, Bahrain and the US will continue to collaborate on regional defence initiatives and address global challenges through their shared commitment to the principles of C-SIPA.