Bahrain ruler proud of close ties with Malaysia, says Hisham
KUALA LUMPUR: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein ended his working visit to Bahrain yesterday, declaring it a success which has brought about closer bilateral and military ties between the Gulf state and Malaysia.
In a statement yesterday, he said Bahrain ruler King Hamad Isa Al-Khalifa had expressed delight and pride in the existing close ties between the two countries, as well as cooperation in military and defence.
Apart from sharing information and experience concerning Bahrain’s efforts in dealing with terrorist threats, especially from the Islamic State militant group, Hishammuddin said he informed King Hamad on plans to build the King Salman Centre for International Peace with Saudi Arabia.
“He has expressed a desire to come to Malaysia and take a closer look at the Malaysian armed forces and Bahrain’s armed forces’ ability to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the future.”
He said during his meeting with Crown Prince of Bahrain Prince Salman Hamad they discussed defence cooperation, focusing on addressing regional and global security threats.
Hishammuddin said he also met Bahrain Defence Minister Lieutenant-General Yusuf Ahmed Al-Jalahma to discuss cooperation and the latest security threats.
Hishammuddin and his delegation held bilateral talks with Bahrain Economic Development Board chief executive officer Khalid Al Rumaihi.
“In response to that, a highlevel delegation, which will be led by armed forces chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor, will visit Bahrain to discuss defence and military cooperation.