Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani held high-level discussions with key international figures, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin, and UK’s Minister of State for Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and the United Nations, Lord Tariq Ahmad.
These talks took place on the sidelines of the “Emergency Response for Humanitarian Aid to Gaza” conference, organized in collaboration with Jordan, Egypt, and the United Nations.
Strengthening US-Bahrain Relations
According to the Bahrain News Agency, Al-Zayani and Blinken explored the historical and strategic ties between Bahrain and the United States.
They discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation under the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), which aims to advance mutual interests.
Blinken praised the success of the recent Arab Summit in Bahrain and reaffirmed US support for its initiatives.
He highlighted the ongoing collaboration and consultation between the two nations across various levels and fields, emphasizing their shared interests.
Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The discussions also focused on the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Al-Zayani and Blinken deliberated on regional and international efforts to cease hostilities, protect civilians, release hostages, and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza residents.
They emphasized the importance of opening negotiations to achieve a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian issue and secure regional stability.
Enhancing Bahrain-Russia Cooperation
In his meeting with Sergey Vershinin, Al-Zayani reviewed ways to develop bilateral cooperation in various fields, following King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s recent visit to Russia.
They discussed agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at boosting cooperation in vital areas.
The conversation also covered current regional and international developments, their impact on regional security and stability, and the ongoing war in Gaza.
Both parties stressed the importance of Arab and international efforts to halt the conflict and reviewed other issues of mutual interest.
Expanding Bahrain-UK Collaboration
Al-Zayani’s meeting with Lord Tariq Ahmad focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in different sectors.
They addressed the political, security, and humanitarian developments in Gaza and the international efforts to establish a permanent ceasefire, protect civilians, and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The discussions also aimed at advancing peace efforts in the region.
These engagements reflect Bahrain’s proactive role in addressing regional security and humanitarian challenges while strengthening its international partnerships to promote stability and peace.