Manama: The US will continue to work with Bahrain and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) partners in addressing security challenges and the fight against Daesh, the US ambassador in Manama has said.
“Bahrain has been a stalwart partner in fighting terrorism, and has itself been a victim of terrorism directed from outside the country,” Justin Siberell said.
“The United States works closely with Bahrain and other GCC partners on a wide range of security challenges - countering terrorism and extremism, countering the financing of terrorists, and addressing threats to the freedom of navigation and maritime security.”
The GCC, established in 1981, comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Siberell who was sworn in as ambassador to Bahrain in November last year said he was optimistic about the outcome of the joint fight against challenges to stability in the region.
“Bahrain graciously hosts the United States Navy Central Command and the Fifth Fleet. Their presence here enables the United States and Bahrain to work side-by-side to address threats to regional stability. Joint exercises, training, and Bahrain’s acquisition of advanced US defence capabilities are each important to ensuring we continue working together in the future in defence of shared security interests,” he said in an interview with Bahrain News Agency (BNA).
He voiced pride that the US was leading the 73-member Global Coalition that supported efforts that had seen Daesh’s so-called caliphate crumble across Iraq and Syria.
“As an important member of this 73-member coalition, Bahrain’s support in this effort has been invaluable. We will continue to work with Bahrain on the fight against Daesh. Our work is far from over.”
Siberell said the US faced a 21st century global environment that presented unconventional threats from non-state actors, as well as challenges to economic and national security from traditional state actors.
“President Trump recently announced a new National Security Strategy that brings to bear all elements of American power to protect our people, generate new economic opportunities, and advance our interests and democratic principles. This strategy advances four vital national interests - protecting the American people, promoting American prosperity, preserving peace through strength and advancing American influence in the world.”
“As President Trump said in his remarks at the release of the National Security Strategy, ‘We want strong alliances and partnerships based on cooperation and reciprocity.’ I look forward to working with my Bahraini government counterparts to implement this strategy by strengthening our partnership, which underpins security throughout the region and promises peace and prosperity for both our peoples.”
