Bahrain and U.S. Sign Landmark Border Security Agreement

Bahrain and U.S. Strengthen Border Security Cooperation Through New Memorandum of Understanding

Bahrain’s Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on border security cooperation. The agreement aims to facilitate information sharing to protect the safety and security of both nations’ territories and ensure proper checks on borders, immigration, and travelers to prevent unauthorized entry related to terrorism, crime, or national security concerns.

The signing ceremony took place during Minister Al Khalifa’s visit to the United States, attended by Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard; Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the U.S.; Sheikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs; and members of the Bahraini delegation.

Upon arrival at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Minister Al Khalifa received a formal welcome from Secretary Noem, who emphasized the importance of the visit in enhancing security coordination, developing bilateral relations, and opening new avenues for cooperation. She highlighted the long-standing strategic ties between the two countries, strengthened through years of close collaboration.

In his remarks, Minister Al Khalifa reflected on over a century of Bahrain-U.S. partnership aimed at achieving peace, stability, and shared prosperity. He noted that under the leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the partnership has flourished, rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to international security and peace.

The Minister highlighted that Bahrain’s recent strategic initiatives, including the visit of Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, reaffirm the kingdom’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with the United States. He also praised Secretary Noem’s achievements and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s steadfast dedication to law, order, and national security.

Minister Al Khalifa explained that U.S. priorities in border security, supply chain resilience, and strategic alliances align closely with Bahrain’s security objectives. “The signing of this MoU strengthens the security of both countries and supports Bahrain’s ambition to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program—a milestone achieved through years of trust and cooperation,” he said.

The MoU complements the broader framework of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement, which now includes the United Kingdom, providing a platform for collaboration in security, emerging technologies, and economic development. Bahrain also expressed interest in deepening maritime cooperation, building on the historic partnership between the U.S. Coast Guard and the Bahraini Coast Guard, to maintain the effectiveness of the agreement and promote regional stability.

During discussions, both sides explored cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, capacity building, training, visa waiver arrangements, and maritime security. The meeting also considered the formation of a joint committee to coordinate security efforts and develop areas of mutual interest.

Minister Al Khalifa highlighted Bahrain’s domestic achievements in security and stability, citing a record decline in overall crime rates and successful initiatives like community partnership programs, alternative sentencing, and open prison programs. He praised the reform agenda of His Majesty the King, which has strengthened justice, coexistence, and openness in Bahraini society, reinforcing national security capabilities.

The Minister concluded by emphasizing Bahrain’s readiness to build on this foundation, working closely with the United States to advance initiatives that protect both nations and set new benchmarks for partnership, security, and prosperity in the years ahead.

The signing of the MoU marks a historic milestone in Bahrain-U.S. relations, opening new avenues for bilateral cooperation and reinforcing shared commitments to peace, security, and regional stability.