Washington: As part of his current visit to the United States, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, held an extensive meeting with Kristi Noem, US Secretary of Homeland Security.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was attended by Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the US Coast Guard; Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United States; Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs; and members of the accompanying delegation. Upon his arrival at the headquarters of the Department of Homeland Security, the Interior Minister was received by the US Secretary of Homeland Security, where an official reception ceremony was held.
The US Secretary of Homeland Security welcomed the visit, affirming its importance in strengthening security cooperation and developing bilateral relations. She noted the strategic relations between the two countries, which have developed over years of close cooperation.
The Interior Minister delivered a speech highlighting the long-standing partnership between Bahrain and the United States, emphasizing their mutual commitment to promoting international security and stability. He acknowledged the flourishing partnership under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Excellency Donald Trump, President of the US.
He praised the achievements of the US Secretary of Homeland Security and commended the department's efforts in safeguarding the United States. He pointed out that the priorities of the US Administration, such as border security and reinforcing strategic alliances, align with Bahrain's security objectives.
The Interior Minister confirmed that the signing of a memorandum of cooperation will enhance the security of both countries and expressed Bahrain's aspiration to join the US Visa Waiver Programme. He noted that this complements the broader framework of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA).
He expressed Bahrain's interest in deepening maritime cooperation with the US Coast Guard and working closely with the Department of Homeland Security to ensure C-SIPA remains effective. He also noted the launch of Gulf Air's first direct flight to the United States, emphasizing its role in strengthening commercial and investment relations.
The Interior Minister concluded his speech by affirming Bahrain's readiness to build on this foundation, working with the United States to promote initiatives that safeguard both nations and set new standards for partnership, security, and prosperity.
Following the speech, the Interior Minister and the US Secretary of Homeland Security signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of border security. The memorandum aims to exchange information to protect the security of both countries and carry out checks related to borders, immigration, and travellers.
Subsequent bilateral talks highlighted the security and stability in Bahrain, with references to the record decline in crime rate and measures adopted to enhance community security. The Interior Minister expressed pride in the level of security cooperation and coordination, emphasizing the importance of continuing collaboration within the framework of C-SIPA.
During the discussions, the two sides explored cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, training, capacity building, visa waiver arrangements, and maritime security. They also agreed to study the formation of a joint committee for security cooperation and coordination, expanding bilateral cooperation.
The talks concluded with discussions on regional and international security issues, contributing to the preservation of security and strengthening joint efforts to address current security challenges.