HM the King receives US commander..Bahrain confirms participation in preserving safety of maritime navigation and securing international corridors for trade and energy in the region

Manama, Aug.18 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the Supreme Commander, has received at Al-Safriya Palace, in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, General Kenneth F. McKenzie, Commander of the US Central Command, currently on visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain. HM the King welcomed General McKenzie, hailing strong strategic relations and decades-long partnership binding the two friendly countries, based on mutual confidence, respect and joint coordination. He commended steadily-growing military and defence cooperation to achieve mutual goals and aspirations, hailed the pivotal role of the US Administration, in cooperation with allied and friendly countries, to maintain regional stability and consolidate international security and peace. He hailed the efforts exerted by General McKenzie to expand joint military and defence cooperation between the two friendly countries. He reiterated Bahrain’s appreciation of the US role in supporting regional security and stability and deter threats facing them. HM the King confirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s participation in the joint effort to preserve the safety of international maritime navigation and secure international corridors for trade and energy in the region. HM the King and General McKenzie exchanged views regarding regional and international developments, particularly latest developments in the region. General McKenzie expressed thanks and appreciation to HM the King for his efforts to strengthen strong historic relations of friendship and consolidate joint military cooperation to the USA. He commended Bahrain’s vital role and contribution to serving regional and international peace and stability. HM the King hosted a dinner banquet in honour of the Commander of the US Central Command and the accompanying delegation.