A+ A-

Biden, Bahrain's King discuss situation in Iraq

WASHINGTON, June 24 (KUNA) -- US Vice President Joe Biden spoke with King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain during which they discussed several issues, including the situation in Iraq, it was announced late Monday.
The Office of the Vice President said in a statement that Biden and King Hamad "agreed on the need for Iraqi leaders to set aside sectarian agendas and come together to confront the serious security threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant." It added that Biden and King Hamad also spoke about ongoing efforts at reform and dialogue within Bahrain, where Biden "encouraged the Government of Bahrain, opposition parties, and all segments of Bahraini society to reach agreement on meaningful reforms and a path forward that addresses the legitimate aspirations of all Bahrainis." Biden also underscored "America's commitment to a partnership with Bahrain that has spanned seven decades, as well as America's enduring and overlapping interests in Bahrain's security, stability, and reform," the statement affirmed. (end) si.gta