HH Shaikh Nasser highlights Kingdom’s leadership in regional peace efforts at Aspen Security Forum
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com
Report by Ashen Tharaka
Lieutenant General His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor and Royal Guard Commander, announced Bahrain’s plans to expand the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) beyond its current bilateral framework with the US.
“C-SIPA will evolve from a bilateral agreement to a multilateral one with a wider scope,” HH Shaikh Nasser stated.
“Beyond the Middle East, the US has many friends globally.
This agreement will unite all these allies.” HH Shaikh Nasser made this announcement at the 15th annual Aspen Security Forum in Colorado, USA, an event dedicated to driving global change through dialogue, leadership, and action to address society’s greatest challenges.
He emphasised that the C-SIPA represents the most significant agreement Bahrain has established with the US.
Unlike traditional military and defense arrangements, C-SIPA encompasses a broader scope, integrating comprehensive security measures with a focus on prosperity.
“It’s not just a military and defense cooperation. It’s a comprehensive security integration, and moreover, it has the prosperity element in the agreement,” HH Shaikh Nasser stated.
HH Shaikh Nasser underscored the distinctive nature of this agreement, highlighting it as the first security guarantee provided to an Arab state. He urged progress, referencing Article Five of the agreement as a call to advance the initiative.
Peace and Stability in the Middle East
Responding to questions about Saudi Arabia’s normalisation process with Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, HH Shaikh Nasser underscored the collective push for peace observed at the Arab Summit.
“Our stance is clear; it’s a two-state solution, but we have to proceed step by step. I must reiterate the importance of a ceasefire,” he stated.
In line with these efforts, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has announced a forthcoming peace conference, with Bahrain’s foreign minister embarking on a global diplomatic tour to advance this peace initiative.
Operation Prosperity Guardian
HH Shaikh Nasser responded to a question regarding Bahrain’s active participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG), a key initiative aimed at resolving conflicts in the Red Sea region, in this forum.
He highlighted Bahrain’s role in OPG, emphasising that the kingdom’s involvement is not directed against any single party, such as the Houthis, but focused on safeguarding global interests.
“Bahrain is a part of OPG not against one party, or let me say Houthis, but we are securing the world’s interest,” he stated.
Bahrain’s Leadership and Vision
In his address, HH Shaikh Nasser also emphasised Bahrain’s dedication to national identity and proactive leadership.
“I am very much keen on our national identity.
As a nation, we truly believe in action, not next week or tomorrow plans. Actions are more important,” he said.
The three-day Aspen Security Forum wrapped up yesterday with a speech by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who addressed urgent security concerns facing both the region and the world.
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