HM King, Israel’s Gantz talk on boosting ties

TDT | Manama  

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has called for boosting ties and enhancing cooperation in various areas during talks held yesterday with the Minister of Defence for Israel Benny Gantz at Sakhir Palace.

HM King also reiterated support to all endeavours aimed at achieving just, lasting and comprehensive peace, progress and prosperity for the countries and peoples of the region. Gantz unannounced visit comes amid the ongoing participation of Israel in a 60-nation US-led Middle East naval exercise - the first time alongside Saudi Arabia and Oman.

The visit is also a first for an Israeli defence chief to visit Bahrain and an Israeli military aircraft to land here. Gantz flew to Bahrain on an Israeli air force transport plane. During talks, HM the King explored bilateral ties and ways to enhance cooperation in various fields as per the US-brokered Abraham Accords signed by the two nations on the 15th of September 2020.

HM King told Gantz that the visit, he expects, to push relations to broader horizons and joint actions to serve the mutual interest. His Majesty further told Gantz that Bahrain’s approach follows the values of understanding, dialogue, tolerance and peaceful co-existence, being the best means to meet aspirations for peace, development and prosperity.

Discussions also focused on regional and international issues of common interest. Israeli Minister of Defence thanked HM King for his warm reception and hospitality. He affirmed keenness to develop friendly relations and wished the people of Bahrain further progress and prosperity.

Talks with HRH Separately, Gantz held talks with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on boosting ties at Riffa Palace. HRH Prince Salman said the Memorandum of Understanding signed during Gantz’s visit serves to develop bilateral relations and cooperation.

His Royal Highness noted that the signing of this MoU builds upon the work of the Abraham Accords and efforts to solidify regional security. The discussion also focused on regional and international developments and issues of common interest. The Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and the Minister of Defence, Lieutenant General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Nuaimi, also attended the meeting.