C-SIPA: A Model for Gulf Cooperation

TDT | Manama

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His Highness Lieutenant General Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Adviser and Royal Guard Commander, un derscored Bahrain's commit-ment to regional security, sta-bility, and prosperity during the opening session of the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue. The session featured a high-profile side line panel discussion with us National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, focusing on the Comprehensive Security Inte-gration and Prosperity Agree ment (C-SIPA) and its broader implications.

HH Shaikh Nasser emphasized that C-SIPA, signed following Bahrain's participation in the Abraham Accord, represents a comprehensive framework ex 212 216 2 21 212 21 212 21 THE IMPERATIVE OF SECURITY CO PERATION tending beyond defense cooper ation to science, technology, and economic investment. "C-SIPA is not just a defense agreement; it is a multilateral platform that addresses regional conflicts while fostering a global frame work for cooperation," he said.

Key Security Enhancements

Bahrain has strengthened its military capabilities with the in-tegration of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and upgraded Patriot air de-fense systems, delivered ahead of schedule. These measures enhance Bahrain's air power and preparedness amid rising regional tensions, particularly recent incidents involving Iran and Qatar. HH Shaikh Nasser noted that collaboration with the United States through Op-eration Posterity Guardian demonstrates a shared commit- ment to stability in a turbulent Middle East.

Economic and Technological Gains

Beyond defense, C-SIPA is driving investment deals and innovation. Bahrain has signed multi-million-dollar agreements in energy, cybersecurity, and space sectors, including small modular nuclear reactors and HH Shaikh Nasser highlighted the trilateral cooperation with satellite technology projects. the United States and the Unit-ed Kingdom, signaling a move toward a broader multilateral approach to regional security and economic prosperity.

Regional Challenges

Both HH Shaikh Nasser and Tulsi Gabbard reflected on the complexities of engaging with Iran, noting that diplomacy and intelligence collaboration are essential in navigating threats and fostering long-term peace. "True security and prosperity cannot be forged in isolation but through collective efforts among peacemakers," said Gabbard, stressing the importance of pragmatic, deal-driven foreign policy in preventing conflicts and stabilizing the region.

US-Bahrain Cooperation

The dialogue highlighted the United States' role as a com-mitted partner, facilitating both defense and economic collabo-ration across the Gulf. Gabbard praised Bahrain's leadership in leveraging strategic partner-ships to advance regional sta-bility, noting that initiatives like C-SIPA link military prepared-ness with economic and tech- nological development, creating a holistic approach to security.

2 HH Shaikh Nasser concluded his remarks by reaffirming Bah-rain's commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and multilateral cooperation as the foundation for regional peace and prosper-ity, reinforcing the Kingdom's vision of stability amid a chal-lenging geopolitical landscape.