Bahraini prince meets former UK FM for the Middle East

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, today met former UK Foreign Office Minister for the Middle East, Alistair Burt MP at Gudaibiya Palace. During his meeting, His Royal Highness emphasised that the fundamental values of full participation and commitment stem from the reform and development programme first initiated by His Majesty King Hamad. He also underscored that fact that all the steps and decisions made so far along this path have been in the interests of all of Bahrain. Turning to Bahrain’s bilateral ties with the UK, His Royal Highness emphasised the resilience and long history of the special relationship between the two countries and their shared priorities of promoting security and stability in the region. His Royal Highness continued that both countries are constantly working to encourage dialogue and co-ordination among the International community in order to promote and support development across the region. His Royal Highness also welcomed Mr Burt’s participation in the Manama Dialogue and his visit to Bahrain, noting that such visits reflect the UK’s dedication to addressing the challenges and issues around regional security and stability. He added that the exchange of parliamentary visits is of paramount importance due to the opportunities for the exchange of opinions and experience, and the opportunity to learn from the UK’s parliamentary history. For his part, Mr Burt welcomed the opportunity to meet with His Royal Highness and noted his interest in supporting cooperation and coordination between Bahrain and the UK, as well as Bahrain’s efforts to improve stability and peace in the region. The meeting was also attended by an accompanying delegation, which included Speaker of the Council of Representatives of Bahrain, His Excellency Khalifa bin Ahmad Al Dhahrani,