His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, was also present during the meeting. General Mattis offered condolences to HM the King following the sad demise of Her Royal Highness Shaikha Moaza bint Hamad Al-Khalifa, May Allah Almighty rest her soul in eternal peace.
HM Majesty King Hamad welcomed General Mattis and thanked him on his condolences, lauding strong historic relations bonding the Kingdom of Bahrain and the US and steadily growing cooperation. He also stressed Bahrain’s firm keenness to promote bilateral ties, particularly military relations and defence cooperation, stressing the crucial role of the US in maintaining global security and stability.
The two sides discussed current regional political developments and ways of maintaining security and stability in this highly strategic region. General Mattis expressed deep appreciation to HM King Hamad, stressing Bahrain’s role in supporting international and regional efforts to achieve peace and stability.
The US considers the Kingdom of Bahrain as a key strategic ally”, he said, stressing strong bilateral relations and keenness to promote cooperation in all fields, particularly military cooperation.