Bahrain said it has signed a major defence co-operation agreement with the UK, which as a strategic ally has been playing a pivotal role in consolidating security in the Gulf. The deal crowns His Majesty King Hamad's successful visits to the UK, which contributed to bolstering relations and expanding the scope of co-operation, said His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander. Prince Salman attended the signing ceremony at the British Defence Ministry. Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and Secretary of State for Defence Philip Hammond signed it. The Crown Prince said the deal would usher in wider horizons for military and defence co-operation. He hailed the agreement as mirroring deep-rooted historic relations. The Crown Prince said Bahrain considered the UK a key strategic ally, adding that both countries aspire to maintain regional security and stability, promote respect for sovereignty and mutual interests. He stressed the pivotal role played by the UK in consolidating security in the Gulf. The agreement aims to consolidate military co-operation and maintain security and stability in Bahrain and the region, in addition to providing backing for Bahrain to stave off any external aggression threatening its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Under the deal, both sides pledge to promote co-operation in all fields, including exchanging intelligence and visits, training, education, scientific and technical co-operation and joint training. Royal Court Follow-up Minister Shaikh Ahmed bin Ateyatala Al Khalifa, Crown Prince's Court chief Shaikh Khalifa bin Daij Al Khalifa and Bahrain Ambassador Alice Samaan attended. TradeArabia
