United Kingdom renews ties with Bahrain

Manama : United Kingdom Members of Parliament have discussed ways to strengthen the distinguished relations with Bahrain, in a meeting with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in London yesterday.

“ A number of issues of mutual interest,  including the UK’s historic friendship with Bahrain as well as common security issues, trade ties and the opening of our new naval base in Bahrain were discussed,” MP Connor Burns, Bournemouth West, Chairman of the Bahrain All Party Parliamentary Group said. 

“Bahrain has been Britain’s ally for more than 200 years. The ties that have developed since then led to Bahrain being one of Britain’s most dependable friends in the Middle East. Bahrain, from the beginning of its relationship with the UK in 1816, has evolved into the most liberal and progressive society in the Arab world. It has led the way on women’s rights, freedom of worship and creating a tolerant, diverse community,” he elaborated.

Baroness Morris of Bolton said that the the University of Bolton had signed an MoU with Bahrain and the Advanced Performance Engineering Department to build a centre at the university.

Lord Kilclooney welcomed the reforms launched in Bahrain in cooperation with the Northern Ireland police, whereas MP Bob Stewart, Beckenham, highlighted the steady growth of defene ties between the two countries.

“I visited Bahrain as an army officer and I think it’s a wonderful country. I am very pleased that our defence relationship has been boosted,” he said.

MP Nadhim Zahawi, Stratford on Avon, said that the inauguration of HMS Juffair last year at the port at Mina Salman has strenghthened the relations with the UK.