In an exclusive interview with Bahrain This Month, US Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Steven C. Bondy, discusses the dynamic relationship between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Bahrain and reviews the progress and future aspirations of this longstanding partnership of shared stability and prosperity.
Your Excellency, how would you describe the current state of US relations with Bahrain?
Relations are thriving and moving from strength to strength. The last 12 months have included important milestones in our bilateral relations, notably the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in September of 2023. This agreement significantly upgrades our strategic relationship, formalising our cooperation to deter conflict, enhance regional stability and increase cooperation in technology, trade and investment.
I am proud of the growing people-to-people ties between Americans and Bahrainis. I enjoyed sharing American hip-hop and breakdancing during the Spring of Culture festival and meeting many Bahraini leaders who participated in US Embassy exchange programmes. In healthcare, education, law enforcement and filmmaking, Americans and Bahrainis work side-by-side, sharing best practices and ensuring our partnerships and friendships will flourish in the years to come.
What are the key areas of cooperation between the two nations?
C-SIPA enhances our cooperation in three primary areas. First, it expands our security and defense collaboration to bolster regional stability and prosperity. Second, it strengthens our commercial relationship, focusing on trade and investment opportunities in areas like supply chain resilience and infrastructure. Third, it expands our cooperation in science, advanced technology, artificial intelligence and information and communications technology
How is the United States supporting Bahrain’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan?
United States-Bahrain trade and investment are at near-historic levels. Our governments recognise that emerging technology will shape the future. Many American companies are interested in working in Bahrain to pursue regional opportunities and benefit from our close bilateral partnership. We facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas, information and skills between our societies. From FinTech to artificial intelligence, connectivity and data centres, this innovation will reshape industries, forming more sustainable, competitive and fair economies.
Can you discuss any recent joint military exercises, security achievements or partnerships between the two countries?
As the host nation for US Naval Forces Central Command, the US Navy 5th Fleet and the Combined Maritime Forces, Bahrain is a key contributor to United States and coalition security efforts. Bahrain participates in numerous regional security initiatives, including Operation Prosperity Guardian, defending commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Bahrain’s security partnership with the United States extends beyond the region, as demonstrated by our long involvement in the F-16 fighter jet programme. Bahrain is the first to fly the advanced F-16 Block 70 jets, receiving the first three earlier this year.
How do you see Bahrain’s role in the broader context of Gulf and Middle Eastern geopolitics?
During this challenging period, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has visited Bahrain three times, and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin visited once. Their meetings with Bahrain’s leadership have yielded insights and actions the United States has pursued, and we are grateful for our trusting partnership with Bahrain. The Kingdom’s successful hosting of the 33rd Arab Summit showcased its regional leadership and good relations. Both our countries are focused on implementing a ceasefire, releasing hostages and providing more humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Long-term, we aim for Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace and prosperity through the establishment of an independent Palestine.
What are the current trade figures between the two nations? What measures are being taken to enhance bilateral trade and investment?
This year marks 20 years since the United States and Bahrain signed our bilateral Free Trade Agreement and 18 years since it came into force. Since then, two-way trade has nearly quadrupled from USD782 million in 2005 to more than USD3 billion in 2018. In 2022 and 2023, the bilateral trade volume was USD2.85 billion, with trade in services adding about USD1 billion annually. Partnerships between US companies and Bahrain’s public and private sectors have resulted in projects that underpin Bahrain’s economy. The US Embassy’s commercial team and the American Chamber of Commerce of Bahrain help facilitate relationships and trade opportunities.
What are the main challenges facing US businesses looking to invest in Bahrain?
One primary challenge is gaining familiarity with Bahrain’s business landscape and understanding the unique opportunities. As regional economic integration expands, American investors can leverage Bahrain’s strategic location and supportive business environment. We are always ready to assist American companies looking to invest and do business in Bahrain.
What initiatives are in place to promote educational and cultural exchange between the United States and Bahrain?
People-to-people ties are at the heart of our relationship with Bahrain. More than 130 years ago, Americans extended friendship through healthcare, establishing a school, hospital and church that continue to operate. This dedication has expanded through robust exchanges of students, artists, journalists, youth leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals. The US Embassy offers university scholarships, entrepreneurship training and cultural programmes and Bahrainis are encouraged to follow us on social media for the latest on these initiatives.
Do you have any figures on the number of Bahrainis and Bahrain residents who travelled to the United States from Bahrain in 2023? What measures are being taken to enhance this figure and promote tourism?
Last year, the US Embassy in Manama conducted almost 15,000 visa interviews. Bahrainis receive 10-year visitor visas for tourism, business meetings, or visiting friends and family. Many can renew visas by mail, avoiding in-person interviews, and those needing interviews have the shortest wait times in the Gulf. In 2022, Bahrain became the first regional country to join the ‘Global Entry’ programme, allowing expedited entry to the United States.
How is the embassy working to support American citizens residing or traveling in Bahrain?
We support American citizens during significant moments, such as births, adoptions, crises and emergencies. We process passport applications, notarise documents and issue Consular Reports of Birth Abroad. We assist American families relocating to the United States by processing immigrant visas. For Americans visiting Bahrain, our website offers up-to-date information on visa and entry requirements, safety and contact details. This year, our consular section is also helping US citizens vote in the elections by accepting and mailing absentee ballots.
Is there anything you would like to comment on further?
This is the sixth time I am celebrating American Independence Day on July 4 in Bahrain, over two separate diplomatic tours. It is a privilege to represent the US government and people here and work alongside Bahraini friends, allies and partners. Happy Independence Day!
