LOC00:26
21:26 GMT
MANAMA, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- Bahraini King Hamad Al-Khalifa reiterated appreciation of the US longstanding support of the Arabian Gulf countries to defend regional security and stability, and deter threats facing them.
In a statement published by Bahrain news agency (BNA), King Hamad said that his country would assume its role, alongside brothers and allies in this joint work to ensure the safety of the international oil and trade routes and protect the safety of maritime navigation in the region.
The Bahraini leader made his remarks as he received General Kenneth McKenzie, Commander of the US Central Command, currently on visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
The King welcomed General McKenzie, hailing strong strategic relations and decades-long partnership binding the two friendly countries, based on mutual confidence, respect and joint coordination.
He commended steadily-growing military and defence cooperation to achieve mutual goals and aspirations, hailed the pivotal role of the US Administration, in cooperation with allied and friendly countries, to maintain regional stability and consolidate international security and peace.
The Bahraini king hailed the efforts exerted by General McKenzie to expand joint military and defence cooperation between the two friendly countries.
King Hamad and General McKenzie also exchanged views regarding regional and international developments, particularly latest developments in the region.
For his part, General McKenzie thanked the King for his efforts to strengthen strong historic relations of friendship and consolidate joint military cooperation with the US.
McKenzie commended Bahrain's vital role and contribution to serving regional and international peace and stability. (end)
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