Bahrain-US historic friendship, cooperation continues to flourish

TDT | Manama    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s Ambassador to the US, His Excellency Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, emphasised the historical friendship and partnership between the two countries, spanning various security, economic, commercial, and cultural dimensions.

Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid was speaking as he participated in a podcast titled “America’s Roundtable,” hosted by Ms. Natasha Sarduk and Mr. Joel Anand Sami, founders of the International Leaders Summit.

During the episode, the Ambassador highlighted Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, initiated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering global investments and commercial opportunities.

Mentioning the formulation of Bahrain Economic Vision 2050 framework, Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid emphasised Bahrain’s strategic position and its pioneering adoption of a Cloud-First policy to promote cutting-edge technologies in governance.

He emphasised the strength of the 52-year diplomatic relationship between Bahrain and the US, and its multifaceted nature, encompassing security, trade, investment, and economic opportunities.

Key agreements

The Ambassador highlighted key agreements such as the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), currency pegging, free trade agreement, and the upcoming US trade zone in Bahrain, along with the Kingdom’s hosting of the Fifth Fleet, symbolising the depth of the partnership.

Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid mentioned the long-standing presence of the American community in Bahrain, dating back to the late nineteenth century, and their significant contributions to institutions like the American Mission Hospital (AMH).

He noted recent collaborations between King Hamad American Mission Hospital and the Mayo Clinic in the US as evidence of ongoing partnerships. The podcast hosts commended Bahrain’s progress across various sectors, reflecting the vision of HM King Hamad and the continuous efforts of HRH Prince Salman, acknowledging achievements in trade, infrastructure, sustainable goals, and tourism.