British Premier hails UK - Bahrain relations

London: July 16 (BNA): The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Kingdom, Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa, met the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Theresa May, on the sidelines of the Conservative Middle East Council Annual Reception and Gala Lunch in London. The Ambassador conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, to the UK Prime Minister. He expressed appreciation for her efforts in enhancing relations between the two Kingdoms during her terms, wishing her success in her future career. Prime Minister Theresa May delivered a speech in which she highlighted the work of the council in reinforcing relations with the countries of the Middle East. She commended joint cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom, evident in the work of the United Kingdom Naval Support Facility in Bahrain. She also affirmed the strong relations between the United Kingdom and the GCC countries, especially through the trade exchange, which amounts to £30 billion a year, making the GCC a strategic partner and an important ally. She stressed the need to solve the Palestinian issue through a solution that satisfies both parties in compliance with international resolutions on this matter. The UK Prime Minister highlighted the role of the Ambassador in serving the Bahraini-British relations. The Ambassador met a number of senior officials and MPs during the reception, including the Former Minister of State for Middle East Affairs, Alistair Burt, Chairman of the Bahrain All-Party Parliamentary Group, Colonel Bob Stewart, MP David Jones and Sir Geoffrey Tantum.