Manama:Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with Donald Blome, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, during Blome's visit to Bahrain for the 22nd IISS Manama Dialogue 2026.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting focused on the longstanding friendship between Bahrain and the United States, highlighting the significant progress in their relations across various fields. Both parties discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, aligning with the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) to pursue shared objectives.
The discussions also covered regional developments, emphasizing the importance of ensuring freedom of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Both sides explored ways to strengthen regional security and stability and enhance coordination during Bahrain's membership in the UN Security Council. Views on mutual interest topics were also exchanged.
Attendees at the meeting included Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director-General of Bilateral Relations; Stephanie Hallett, US Ambassador to Bahrain; Ali Khalid Al Oraifi, Chief of Al-Madar Centre; and Salman Hassan Al Jalahma, Chief of the Americas Affairs Sector.