Bahrain, US join hands to boost terrorism fight, sign three MoUs

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s fight against terrorism and terrorist financing got stronger yesterday, with Bahrain signing three deals in this direction with the United States of America. The Memorandum of Understandings with the US focuses on boosting cooperation in combating terrorist financing, cybersecurity and unmanned aircraft systems.

General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Minister of Interior and Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, signed the deals.

Alejandro Mayorkas termed Bahrain a key partner and ally of the United States in fighting security threats and risks in the regional and international arenas. Mayorkas also expressed the readiness to provide necessary support and exchange experience with the Kingdom. “It is important to enhance cooperation with friends and partners around the world against human trafficking,” Shaikh Rashid told Mayorkas, praising the efforts of the US in training and information exchange.

“Bahrain, like the United States, has always been aware of the need for a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, including measures to cut off sources of terrorist funding and support,” the minister stressed.

“HM the King’s approach focuses on promoting the values of democracy, tolerance, coexistence and openness to the other had a great impact consolidating justice, reform security and stability,” said Interior Minister. The minister further reminded the meeting that continued international cooperation is vital to combat cyber-attacks and building cybersecurity capabilities, citing the rising threat posed by ’unmanned’ aircraft systems in recent years.

The Interior Minister also praised the role of the United States in developing the capabilities of the police in the field of combating terrorism. Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al-Khalifa, the Ambassador of Bahrain to the United States, Shaikh Hesham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, the Interior Ministry’s Undersecretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs and the accompanying delegation of the minister were present at the meeting held yesterday.