Premier: Bahrain-US relations based on joint interests

Manama, Nov. 24 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has affirmed that the Bahrain-US relations and cooperation are based on shared interests, noting that the kingdom is looking forward to stronger relations and cooperation with the new administration in Washington to reflect the solid deep-rooted ties that span long years. The Prime Minister made the statements while receiving the US Ambassador to Bahrain, William Roebuck, at the Gudaibiya Palace today. HRH Premier reviewed with the ambassador Bahrain-US relations and ways to bolster them so as to reflect positively on the level of bilateral cooperation and coordination. HRH the Prime Minister stressed the need for a common understanding of the requirements and developments of the current phase, and the challenges they have created, which, he said, require unconventional international coordination and cooperation. "The Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes any cooperation that is based on prioritising joint interests and mutual respect, and serves regional and global security and stability," he said. The meeting also touched upon regional and international issues of mutual concern. In this regard, HRH the Prime Minister reiterated Bahrain's support to every international effort aimed at stepping up cooperation and coordination to meet the peoples' aspirations to live in security and peace, in a way that paves the way for countries' development programmes to continue. The US envoy expressed thanks and appreciation to HRH the Prime Minister for his interest in enhancing bilateral relations, underlining his country's keenness on bolstering cooperation with Bahrain in various fields to serve joint interests. The US Ambassador praised HRH Premier's political, economic and diplomatic activities, and their role in strengthening Bahrain's political, economic and investment relations with various countries and blocs.