As the United States of America marks another Independence Day, His Excellency Steven C. Bondy, US Ambassador to Bahrain, reflects on the depth of US–Bahrain ties, emerging avenues of cooperation and the shared values shaping this enduring partnership.

Your Excellency, this is your fourth July 4 in Bahrain as the US Ambassador.  How have US-Bahrain relations grown during your time as Ambassador?

It has been a tremendous honour to serve as US Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and over the past three and a half years, I’ve witnessed remarkable growth in our bilateral relationship. Our countries have long been close partners, but during my tenure across two US administrations, we’ve elevated that cooperation. This progress is best demonstrated by the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement, which we signed in 2023 and has become a cornerstone of our modern partnership. It reflects a shared commitment to regional stability and prosperity – not just for our two countries, but for the broader Middle East. This year, we saw that agreement expand to include the United Kingdom, and we look forward to welcoming other partners.

Economically, we’ve strengthened our commercial ties through initiatives like the US Trade Zone and expanded partnerships between American companies and Bahraini firms. I’ve been particularly proud to see Bahraini and American entrepreneurs, researchers and innovators working together on everything from energy exploration to digital infrastructure and space science.

President Trump’s May visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates demonstrates the priority the Administration places on ties with the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

In what areas do you see the greatest potential for future collaboration between our two nations?

We’ve seen exciting new areas of cooperation emerge – most recently in space. Bahrain’s successful launch of the Al Munther satellite aboard a US SpaceX rocket marked a new chapter in scientific collaboration. We are eager to explore additional avenues in space cooperation, including the possibility of working together to put a Bahraini into space. The Trump Administration is committed to ensuring the United States remains the global leader in space science, and we want to work with Bahrain in that effort.

Given the longstanding strategic partnership, how does the US Embassy plan to further support Bahrain’s role in promoting regional security and stability?

At the 2024 Manama Dialogue, we witnessed the United Kingdom join the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), marking a significant milestone in trilateral cooperation. This development underscores our collective commitment to not only deepening bilateral ties but also forging a broader, integrated security and economic framework that strengthens regional stability and prosperity. By expanding C-SIPA to include the UK, we are laying the groundwork for more robust collaboration on shared challenges – whether in maritime security, technological innovation or economic development – paving the way for a more secure and resilient Gulf region. Through its work and priorities during its presidency of the Arab League, Bahrain has clearly demonstrated its commitment to peace. The United States looks forward to working intensively on peace and stability with Bahrain during its 2026-2027 term on the United Nations Security Council. Congratulations to Bahrain for its overwhelming victory in being elected to the Council!

Education and cultural exchange have historically played a strong role in US–Bahrain relations. What efforts are being made to expand these programmes?

We currently have over 800 Bahraini alumni of Embassy exchange programmes such as Fulbright, International Visitor Leadership Programme and YES student exchange. This is a dynamic group of people working across all sectors in Bahrain, and we work with them to develop a strong network, so these alumni can work with and learn from one another. We continue to support these exchanges to share ideas and build lasting relationships.

A highlight of each year is meeting the outstanding Bahraini recipients of the Crown Prince International Scholarship. These talented students and future leaders attend some of the United States’ most prestigious universities, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience that they bring back to Bahrain to contribute to the Kingdom’s continued growth and prosperity. We’ve seen the number of recipients grow from 10 to 20, with many of those choosing to study in the United States. With each new cohort, they lay the foundation for future collaboration between our nations and peoples.

How is the US Embassy engaging with Bahrain’s youth and civil society to foster mutual understanding and cooperation?

We see young people as the future of our partnership and are investing in their success and skills development through education, exchange, and dialogue.

Programmes like the Fulbright Programme, MEPI Student Leaders and YES high school exchange programme give Bahraini youth first-hand experience in the United States and help them develop skills that contribute to their communities here in Bahrain. In April, Phil Murphy, the Governor of my home state of New Jersey, led a trade and education delegation to Bahrain. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority and Bahrain’s Masari Association signed an agreement for new Bahraini entrants to the workforce to enjoy internships at New Jersey companies. We are working right now to activate this programme.  

What message would you like to share with the American expatriate community living and working in Bahrain?

To my fellow Americans living and working in Bahrain, I want to express my deepest appreciation for the important role you play in strengthening the bonds between our two nations. You represent the best of America – innovation, creativity and grit – and your contributions build our security ties, create dynamic economic and commercial opportunities, and create lasting people-to-people bonds. Whether you’re serving at US Naval Forces Central Command, in business or in education, your daily interactions with Bahrainis foster understanding, friendship and the mutual respect that sustains this remarkable partnership. And I must add that all Americans in Bahrain know how fortunate they are to live in this beautiful Kingdom among friendly, open and welcoming Bahraini citizens. This truly is the Pearl of the Gulf!

With Bahrain positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and technology, how do you foresee American companies and institutions contributing to this vision?
US firms bring world-class expertise in cutting-edge sectors like digital economy, fintech, Artificial Intelligence applications, energy, healthcare and advanced manufacturing, and we’re seeing increasing collaboration between American and Bahraini partners in these fields, to share knowledge and accelerate progress.

Beyond the private sector, US universities and research institutions can offer invaluable insights and training to help Bahrain’s entrepreneurs and young professionals thrive.

Lastly, what are your personal diplomatic priorities during your tenure in Bahrain, and what legacy do you hope to leave behind?

I have always made it a priority to highlight our shared values and respect for one another, which strengthens our societies and underpins everything we do together.  I have been asked many times what I think the key is to being a successful diplomat. I strongly believe a diplomat must demonstrate respect and enthusiasm for the local society and culture. Here in Bahrain, I have greatly enjoyed learning about Bahrain’s traditions and interacting daily with Bahraini citizens. What is the best thing about Bahrain? That’s an easy one – its people.

As for my legacy, I hope to leave behind a vibrant and resilient US-Bahrain partnership – one that has made the United States safer, stronger and more prosperous through our friendship with our ally, Bahrain. Bahrainis and Americans can feel proud of what we have accomplished together and know there is much more we can do together to build on our success. 

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