Kuwait Amir: GCC keen on bolstering ties with UK

Manama, Dec. 9 (BNA): His Excellency Interior Minister, Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa received a delegation from the UK House of Commons chaired by Sir Hugo Swire on Friday, in the presence of the Deputy Interior Minister, Lt-General Adel bin Khalifa Al Fadhel and Chief of Public Security, Major-General Tariq Al Hassan. HE Interior Minister welcomed the UK delegation that is visiting Bahrain to participate in the 12th edition of Manama Dialogue. Those in attendance commented on the importance of the forum before discussing joint efforts to reinforce regional security. HE Interior Minister briefed the delegation on the efforts of the Interior Ministry to protect security, general order and safety as part of the reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He applauded the dedication to reinforce bilateral cooperation between the two friendly countries in various security fields, including exchange of expertise and fighting cyber crime. The 200 year warm friendship between Bahrain and the UK were commented upon, as well as opportunities for cooperation and topics of common interest. The joint security exercise "Arabia Gulf Security 1" that was held recently in Bahrain as part of security cooperation and coordination was also highlighted. Sir Swire affirmed the strong bilateral ties between the two countries and said the participation of UK Prime Minister Theresa May in the recent UK-Gulf summit reflected the dedication of the UK to reinforce the already strong relations with the Gulf countries. (MOI)