Saturday, July 23, 2011

Bahrain: U.S. Navy's 'ironclad' commitment to Bahrain

SOURCE Kingdom of Bahrain

The U.S. Department of State reiterated the United States' ironclad commitment to Bahrain in denying allegations it intended to move the Navy's Fifth Fleet.

"Diplomatically, we regard Bahrain as an important partner, while the U.S. Navy has a long-standing relationship of more than 60 years with Bahrain, which is a vital member of our Combined Maritime Forces, supporting regional maritime security and stability," a State Department official told the Huffington Post.

The Navy's Fifth Fleet is the central maritime presence in the Middle East and protects vital waterways throughout the Gulf region.

The official also reiterated the United States' strong support for the ongoing National Dialogue under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

"The United States continues to support all of the ongoing efforts that are necessary to promote reconciliation among Bahrainis and to advance necessary reforms," the official said.