Afghanistan refugee evacuation: US Homeland security thanks Bahrain

­TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s decision to open its transit facilities to ease evacuation from Afghanistan was thanked by the US Homeland Security.

In a letter to Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas expressed thanks and appreciation to Bahrain’s efforts in facilitating the evacuation of Afghans.

The US official appreciated Bahrain for its immense coordination, planning, and resources to accommodate a large influx of visitors on short notice.

He also hailed the ability of the two states to tackle regional and global challenges together, highlighting dedication to strengthen the bilateral relationships to pursuing shared strategic and security objectives.

Bahrain opened its transit facilities as the US faced issues with its facilities at Al-Udeid Air Base with those fleeing the Taliban takeover of the country.

Gulf Air had also joined international efforts to resettle Afghan refugees to become the first commercial company to fly Afghan refugees to the US. Gulf Air flew Afghan refugees from Isa Air Base to Dulles International Airport.