Security challenges reviewed

As part of his official visit to the US, Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, met US Acting Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner of the Department of the Homeland Security, Lan Saunders.  The meeting was attended by the accompanying delegation of the Interior Minister and Commander of the US Coast Guard. The US official welcomed the Interior Minister, highlighting the importance of enhancing ties between the two countries.

Security challenges in the Gulf region and Iranian interference and Iran’s role in backing terrorism were reviewed. In this context, the Interior Minister hailed the strategic relations that link Bahrain and the United States, highlighting the importance of working towards reinforcing international counterterrorism cooperation to enhance competency, especially with the use of modern technology in terrorism.  Both sides agreed to promote joint work and exchange of expertise in training and cybersecurity, in addition to holding joint exercises between the coastguard of both countries and activation of memorandums of understanding in customs affairs.

The meeting also reviewed topics of common interest. The minister also met the US Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Christopher Wray, who welcomed him and the delegation. The US side expressed willingness to reinforce security cooperation and coordination with Bahrain and exchanging expertise in training to meet the current and future developments and enhancing the effectiveness of security authorities in dealing with security challenges.

During the meeting, the Interior Minister and the FBI Director signed a memorandum of understanding related to law enforcement and information exchange cooperation to contribute to enhancing best practices in fighting crimes and training.

The Interior Minister and the accompanying delegation visited the National Law Enforcement Museum that highlights the history phases of the US police. The museum depends on showcasing exhibits on technology and interactively presenting information. During the visit, the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding by the Director-General of Media and Security Culture, Brigadier Mohammed bin Daina and the Interim CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Lori Sharpe Day.

The MoU includes building a partnership between the US museum and the Police Museum of the Interior Ministry that will be formed in the future, in which the US organisation will provide its expertise and consultancies. The meetings were attended by Bahrain Ambassador to Washington, Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, President of Customs, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the accompanying delegation.