Bahrain, US announce deal to combat human trafficking

TDT | Manama                                                

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com     

Bahrain Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa and US Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at combating trafficking in persons.

The agreement enables the exchange of critical information to effectively detect, investigate, and prosecute cases related to human trafficking.

Additionally, it stresses the protection and assistance of victims, while also facilitating training programmes, educational initiatives, seminars, and workshops focused on addressing the issue of trafficking in persons.

It’s worth noting that Bahrain has consistently earned the designation of a Tier 1 country in the US Department of State’s assessment of global efforts to combat trafficking in persons since 2018. The signing took place during Interior Minister Shaikh Rashid’s visit to the United States of America.

The discussions also delved into strengthening collaboration and sharing experiences in countering the risks associated with drones, as well as addressing challenges posed by online platforms and video games.

Minister Shaikh Rashid expressed gratitude for the United States’ support in facilitating Bahrain’s inclusion in the Global Entry programme.

This follows the activation of the “Trusted Traveler” agreement, signed by both countries in January 2021.