Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, received in Manama the outgoing Commander of Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), Rear Admiral Daisuke Kajimoto, in the presence of the Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain, Hideki Ito.

The Commander-in-Chief commended eth efforts exerted by Rear Admiral Daisuke Kajimoto throughout his tenure, wishing him every success in his future assignments, according Bahrain News Agency (BNA).

Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa also paid an inspection visit to a BDF unit and listened to a briefing on its development and modernization achievements.

He stressed the need to continue boosting the combat and administrative readiness and promote training programs at various weaponries and units. He also underlined the importance of dedication in fulfilling duties professionally and competently to further enhance capabilities to confront all challenges.

The BDF Commander-in-Chief lauded the dedicated efforts of the General Command to develop the capabilities of all BDF personnel and further modernize the units by equipping them with cutting edge technologies to serve the Bahraini community and contribute to the kingdom's development march under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

For his part, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, met with the Commander of the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), General Joseph L. Votel, at Riffa Palace.

During the meeting, HRH the Crown Prince highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to further support and strengthen regional security by working with international allies to address shared threats and challenges.

HRH the Crown Prince emphasized the important role played by the United States in preserving regional security, noting in particular the US’ respect for the internal affairs of sovereign nations.

HRH the Crown Prince praised the joint commitment by Bahrain and the United States to further strengthen bilateral ties across various areas, in particular the longstanding defence and security relationship which has been instrumental to the fight against terrorism.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review a number of regional and international issues of common interest.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, also attended the meeting.