As part of the US Embassy’s Discover America Week, APM Terminals Bahrain welcomed US Ambassador Steven C. Bondy to Khalifa Bin Salman Port, showcasing the strong economic partnership between the US and Bahrain. This visit highlighted the deepening economic cooperation between the two nations and emphasized their commitment to advancing trade, investment, and global supply chain efficiency. The milestone 20th anniversary of the US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement has seen bilateral trade quadruple since its signing in 2004.
Ambassador Bondy’s tour of the port and meetings with senior APM Terminals executives focused on exploring new avenues to enhance trade flows and support US companies operating in Bahrain. Khalifa Bin Salman Port plays a crucial role in facilitating US exports to the region, reinforcing Bahrain as a key logistics hub in the Middle East. The port’s strategic location, along with APM Terminals’ innovative commercial solutions, ensures its position as a cornerstone for economic collaboration between the two nations.
The discussions during the visit emphasized the critical role of trade and investment in fostering economic growth, strengthening supply chains, and creating high-value opportunities for both the United States and Bahrain. Ambassador Bondy emphasized the importance of the partnership anchored by the US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) in driving shared prosperity and stability between the two nations. The recent establishment of the US Trade Zone in Bahrain is expected to further integrate US companies into Bahrain’s growing economy, driving bilateral trade and creating jobs.
Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director of APM Terminals Bahrain, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to facilitating trade and supporting Bahrain’s economic development. APM Terminals Bahrain has outlined a robust plan to reduce its carbon emissions by 70% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 in alignment with Bahrain’s decarbonization strategy led by the Kingdom’s leadership. Through a $10 million investment in renewable energy and the installation of solar panels, Khalifa Bin Salman Port aims to become the region’s first fully electric, energy-sufficient seaport by 2024.
The visit during Discover America Week underscores both nations’ dedication to enhancing trade, commerce, and shared values such as sustainability, innovation, and long-term economic growth. As Bahrain and the US continue to strengthen their historic partnership, the groundwork laid by this visit will drive future collaboration and development in the years to come. The commitment of APM Terminals Bahrain to facilitating stronger trade ties between Bahrain and the US will foster new partnerships, economic growth, and prosperity for both nations.
