Manama: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, received a delegation from the European Parliament, headed by Reinhold Lopatka, Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on Relations with the Arabian Peninsula. The meeting focused on Bahrain's efforts to strengthen ties with European Union countries, as directed 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.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the discussions highlighted Bahrain's commitment to enhancing cooperation across various domains, promoting joint initiatives, and increasing trade and investment projects with the European Union. The Speaker lauded the European Union countries for their supportive stance towards Bahrain and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in condemning Iranian aggression. He also praised their diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, protect international navigation, and ensure global energy security.
The Speaker emphasized the need for lasting peace in the region, which requires ending aggression, ensuring international accountability, redressing damages, resolving issues legally, respecting state sovereignty, and preventing the use of any state's territory for attacks against neighbors. He also underscored the significance of bilateral visits to exchange expertise and coordinate on common issues.
The European Parliament delegation expressed solidarity with Bahrain regarding the Iranian attacks and endorsed Bahrain's measures to maintain security and stability. They also supported efforts to ensure maritime freedom in the Strait of Hormuz and uphold international law and maritime regulations.