US Embassy in Bahrain celebrates FTA anniversary, National Day

The US Embassy’s National Day reception provides an important opportunity to celebrate the longstanding bonds of friendship between Bahrain and the US, encapsulated in today’s strong strategic partnership between the two nations.

During the event, Ambassador William Roebuck reviewed over 100 years of Bahraini-American friendship.

This year’s celebration highlighted the 10th anniversary of the US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (FTA).  In summarizing the positive effect that the FTA has had on trade relations between Bahrain and the US, including the doubling of trade between the two nations since the FTA came into force, Ambassador Roebuck said, “The U.S.-Bahrain FTA is a sign of our faith in the strength and transparency of Bahrain’s economy, and in the value we place on bilateral trade and investment with Bahrain.” 

The National Day reception was hosted by Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan, Commander US Naval Forces Central Command, the US 5th Fleet, and Combined Maritime Forces, Rear Admiral Bret Batchelder, Commander Carrier Strike Group EIGHT, and Captain Ryan Scholl, Skipper of the USS Harry S. Truman, each of whom welcomed guests and highlighted the strong military-to-military ties that exist between Bahrain and the US.  

The Harry S. Truman Strike Group was deployed from the US in November 2015, with six ships, more than 6,000 Sailors and 70 aircraft.  Since late December, they have conducted operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve to demonstrate a continued commitment to the region and Gulf partner nations.

Ministers and senior government officials, diplomats, businessmen, Shura Council members, members of Parliament, academics, and journalists attended the ceremony.  Guests were invited to tour the flight deck of the Harry S. Truman.