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NAVCENT Hosts Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080828-05
Release Date: 8/28/2008 4:49:00 PM

From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), welcomed Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmad Bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa to the command's headquarters in Manama Aug. 28.

During his visit, U.S. and coalition leaders briefed the minister about current operations in the Persian Gulf and highlighted cooperation, regional partnerships and dialogue between the two nations. Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, NAVCENT's commander, also gave the minister a tour of Naval Support Activity, Bahrain.

"The Kingdom of Bahrain is a gracious host to the U.S. Navy, and all the men and women who serve here," said Gortney. "Bahrain is a vital leader in the coalition, and it is important we maintain our outstanding relationship. Today, we are honored to host Bahrain's minister of foreign affairs at our headquarters."

Bahrain commanded Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 March - July 2008, becoming the first Gulf nation to lead a coalition task force. CTF 152 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the central and southern Persian Gulf

MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Coalition maritime forces are well positioned to respond to a variety of emergent situations based on the flexibility and capability they possess. Through operations and training with regional partners, Combined Maritime Forces enhance existing cooperative relationships with an aim to support regional nations' struggles against violent extremists.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.