Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, the Bahraini Ambassador to Canada who resides in Washington, conducted a series of meetings with Canadian officials to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During these meetings, the ambassador emphasized Bahrain's steadfast commitment to principles of coexistence, peace, and openness, aligning with the comprehensive development process championed by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by the government under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
One of the meetings was held with Senator Salma Ataullahjan, Chairperson of the Bahrain-Canadian Friendship Group, and was attended by members of the Group's executive committee. The ambassador praised the role and efforts of the Group in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting collaborative efforts. He underscored the significance of joint action in advancing bilateral ties and commended Canada's support for global security and peace.
Senator Salma Ataullahjan expressed her appreciation for the ambassador's visit and his presence at a Canadian Senate session. She commended Bahrain's advocacy for peace, religious freedom, belief, and peaceful coexistence in the region.
Addressing members of the Bahrain-Canadian Friendship Group, the senator highlighted the growth in cooperation between the two countries in various areas, including regional security, trade, and investment, in recent years. She expressed her delight at the establishment of the Bahraini-Canadian Friendship Group in June.
Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid also met with Omar Alghabra, a Member of the House of Commons of Canada and former Minister of Transport, to discuss strategic projects being undertaken by Bahrain, including the expansion of the Bahrain International Airport and the Metro Bahrain Project. He also met with MPs Shuvaloy Majumdar and Kyle Seeback, who are members of the Canadian House of Commons.
The Ambassador, who resides in Washington and represents Bahrain in Canada, had a meeting with Alexandre Lévêque, Assistant Deputy Minister for Europe, Arctic, Middle East, and Mahgreb at Global Affairs Canada. They discussed avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid highlighted the strong relations between the two countries, particularly in the context of security partnerships and joint task forces aimed at safeguarding security and stability in the Middle East. He reaffirmed Bahrain's commitment to ensuring the safety of marine navigation in the Arabian Gulf through its participation in joint forces.
The ambassador also showcased Bahrain's economic environment and the investment opportunities offered by the government to stimulate the national economy. He expressed Bahrain's eagerness to host the third session of bilateral consultations in the near future.
In a related context, the ambassador met with Martin Larose, Director-General of the Middle East Relations Division at Global Affairs Canada, to explore avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation in political matters. He stressed the importance of strengthening Bahraini-Canadian relations in economic, educational, and cultural spheres. Martin Larose conveyed his country's keen interest in fostering multifaceted relations with Bahrain to achieve common interests.
Furthermore, Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid held a meeting with Shendra Melia, Chief Air Negotiator at Global Affairs Canada.