His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain received at Safriya Palace Sunday outgoing US Naval Forces Central Command and Fifth Fleet Commander Vice Admiral James Malloy.

He lauded deep-rooted historical relations and solid partnership between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the USA which are based on mutual respect and joint coordination, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported.

HM the King commended the efforts of Vice Admiral James Malloy in boosting bilateral cooperation mainly in the military and defense field. He also discussed regional and international developments, stressing the pivotal role of the US administration, in cooperation with allied and friendly countries, in promoting regional security and stability and global peace.

In recognition of the major role of Vice Admiral James Malloy in bolstering relations of friendship and cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the USA, HM the King bestowed on him Bahrain Order-First Class.

For his part, the US Naval Forces Central Command and Fifth Fleet Commander expressed thanks and respect to HM the King for conferring the order on him, commending HM the King’s efforts in boosting strategic relations between the two friendly countries. He also praised the vital role of the Kingdom of Bahrain as a key partner in backing the effort aimed at fostering regional peace and stability.