HM King, Egyptian President hold official talks

Manama, Aug 30 (BNA): HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and President Abdul Fatah El-Sisi of Egypt today held official talks to review ways to boost the fraternal bilateral relations at various levels in the interest of the two countries and their people. HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and delegations of both countries were present. Regional and international developments and topics of joint interests were reviewed, in addition to pushing on with efforts to combat terrorism and its forms of financing to establish peace, security and stability in the region. HM the King expressed delight in the Egyptian President’s visit that reflects the depth of the Bahraini-Egyptian relations, saying the Egyptian President’s visit is a good opportunity to promote coordination, consultation and cooperation in various fields. The two leaders paid tribute to the strong bilateral relations, looking forward to further broadening cooperation. HM the King hailed the development seen by various fields under the leadership of President El-Sisi, welcoming Egypt’s supportive stances toward the Kingdom of Bahrain, and its key contributions to Bahrain’s development process. He reiterated standing by Egyptian efforts to combat terrorism and extremism. HM the King pointed out Egypt’s pivotal role in defending Arab national security and maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East. The Egyptian President expressed delight in meeting HM the King in Bahrain within the framework of reinforcing coordination and consultation that contribute to boosting the bilateral relations. He expressed appreciation of the warm welcome and generosity, noting the royal role in promoting Bahraini-Egyptian relations. He lauded Bahrain’s genuine stances under the leadership of HM the King toward Egypt and its people, as well as its honourable support for the joint Arab action. The two leaders attached great significance to Arab unity and solidarity to safeguard Arab interests and gains. They also highlighted standing firmly against foreign attempts to interfere in the internal affairs of Arab countries. Foreign Affairs Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, following the talks session, said the meeting between the Bahraini and Egyptian leaders complements the constant consultation between the two countries, attaching importance to the Egyptian President’s visit of strategic significance to strengthen unity against attempts to undermine Arab security and stability. The Foreign Minister said HM the King welcomed the Egyptian President’s visit and highlighted Bahrain’s support for Egyptian efforts to achieve progress and prosperity, establishing security and combating terrorism in the region. He added that HM the King expressed appreciation of the Egyptian fraternal stances supportive to Bahrain’s security and stability. He commended Egypt's contribution to protecting Arab nation from attempts of domination throughout history, which is a motive to confront the crises currently witnessed by few Arab countries. He said the meeting focused on the need to continue efforts to fight terrorism and extremism, as well as addressing regional attempts to interfere in the internal affairs of Arab countries, same as in Syria where efforts needed to promote the nation state and driving out regional forces represented in Iran and its backed terrorist groups, including Hezbollah militias. The minister said the two leaders also stressed the need to protect international waterways, noting the two countries’ are playing their roles in this regard in collaboration with partners and allies. He also noted the emphasis on the joint military drills that accentuate the high professionalism and combat readiness. The minister added HM the King underscored that Egypt should have the priority to invest in various fields, pointing out the royal interest in coordinating with Egypt to take on challenges faced by Arab nation for its pivotal role in maintaining security and stability at the regional and international levels.