His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain recently welcomed The Rt Hon David Lammy MP, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, at Al-Sakhir Palace. During the meeting, the King emphasized Bahrain’s pride in its strong strategic relations and historic partnership with the UK, which have been built on a foundation of alliance, cooperation, and collaboration in various fields. The discussions between the King and the British Foreign Secretary focused on the mutual commitment to deepening and strengthening these ties across all levels to serve the common goals and interests of both nations.
His Majesty also praised the significant role of the United Kingdom on regional and international stages, commending its efforts in promoting security and stability in the Middle East and beyond. The King highlighted current regional and international developments, with a particular focus on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He stressed the importance of de-escalation, preventing further conflict expansion, and ensuring the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law. His Majesty called for the release of detainees and the urgent need for a lasting ceasefire agreement in Gaza to facilitate humanitarian aid and alleviate the suffering of its people.
In addition to Gaza, His Majesty emphasized the necessity of working towards a comprehensive and just peace in the region, based on the two-state solution, to secure stability. He also underscored the importance of de-escalating tensions in Lebanon, while preserving its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. His Majesty reaffirmed Bahrain’s support for peace initiatives, stating the country’s commitment to backing any efforts that promote peace in the region for the prosperity and development of all nations.
During the meeting, Secretary Lammy expressed his gratitude to His Majesty for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He applauded the longstanding and deep-rooted ties of friendship between Bahrain and the United Kingdom, acknowledging Bahrain as a vital strategic partner for the UK. Secretary Lammy reiterated the UK’s keen interest in expanding bilateral cooperation with Bahrain in a manner that benefits both countries and their peoples.
Overall, the meeting between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and The Rt Hon David Lammy MP, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, underscored the strong and enduring relationship between the two countries. The discussions focused on the shared commitment to deepening and strengthening their ties, as well as addressing current regional and international developments, such as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The meeting reaffirmed Bahrain’s support for peace initiatives in the region and highlighted the importance of collaboration between Bahrain and the UK for the prosperity and development of both nations.