Washington: His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, attended a reception hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce at its headquarters, which brought together Bahraini and American companies. The event highlighted the collaborative potential between the two nations' private sectors, with significant announcements made during the Crown Prince's official visit to the United States.
According to Bahrain News Agency, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Minister of the Prime Minister's Court, was also present, underscoring the importance of the event. Ross Perot Jr., Chair of the Board and Chair of the Executive Committee of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, received His Royal Highness upon arrival. The Crown Prince attributed the progress in various sectors, including the economy, to the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the efforts of Team Bahrain in building a prosperous future.
The Crown Prince emphasized Bahrain's commitment to expanding international partnerships to deepen economic growth and attract investment. He underscored the need for supporting bilateral economic and investment cooperation by strengthening existing partnerships, which contribute to the development of key sectors. The private sectors in both Bahrain and the United States were noted as vital partners in advancing cooperation.
His Royal Highness highlighted the longstanding bilateral relations between Bahrain and the United States, which are based on friendship and joint cooperation and strengthened by strategic partnerships over 130 years. Strengthening cooperation is seen as crucial for creating development opportunities through joint investments and expertise exchange.
HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, delivered an address on behalf of HM the King and the Crown Prince, expressing Bahrain's appreciation for the hospitality and efforts of the American Chamber of Commerce. New partnerships were announced during the official visit, including an investment package valued at approximately USD 17 billion across aviation, technology, industry, and investment fields.
The Minister of Finance emphasized the cooperation as a reflection of mutual trust and robust partnership. Bahrain's position as an investment destination and strategic partner for the United States is supported by its economic environment, legislative framework, and trade agreements, including the Free Trade Agreement. The Minister encouraged American businesses to capitalize on these opportunities.
His Royal Highness and Ross Perot Jr. witnessed the signing of several agreements valued at approximately USD 17 billion, including digital solutions from Cisco and a multi-fiber submarine cable linking Bahrain with other regions. Additional announcements included the launch of direct flights between Bahrain and New York City, strategic cooperation with a USD 2 billion investment in aluminum-related industries, and a USD 10.7 billion investment in the United States by Bahraini financial institutions and firms.
The reception was attended by senior officials and private sector representatives from both Bahrain and the United States.